A REVIEW ON THE IMPORTANCE AND ACCEPTABILITY OF GARCINIA KOLA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55197/qjoest.v6i1.166Keywords:
Garcinia kola, medicinal plants, phytochemicals, therapeutic properties, traditional medicineAbstract
Garcinia kola, commonly referred to as bitter kola, is a versatile plant native to West and Central Africa. Renowned for its medicinal properties, the plant is often termed a "wonder plant" due to the therapeutic uses of its various parts, particularly its seeds. These seeds are valued for their role in preventing and treating gastric disorders and their astringent taste. This review highlights the nutritional composition, phytochemical properties, and therapeutic potentials of Garcinia kola. Its bioactive compounds, such as biflavonoids, tannins, and saponins, contribute to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Traditional applications of Garcinia kola range from use as a stimulant to treating conditions like cough, dysentery, liver disorders, and malaria. Scientific studies have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing blood pressure, managing diabetes, and mitigating symptoms of osteoarthritis. Furthermore, its potential for pharmaceutical applications is underscored by its use in drug formulations and as a natural remedy for microbial infections. Despite its extensive ethnobotanical significance, further clinical research is required to confirm its therapeutic efficacy and explore its pharmacological mechanisms. This review consolidates the current knowledge on Garcinia kola, emphasizing its importance in traditional medicine and its potential in modern health care systems.
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