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Often called bitter kola or by its scientific name Garcinia kola, this plant is native to West and Central Africa and has been a key part of traditional herbal practices for generations. Interestingly, it is also linked to the early history of Coca-Cola, since extracts of bitter kola were used in some of the drink’s very first recipes.
The fruit of the plant is about the size of an orange, with a tangy yellow pulp that surrounds four large seeds. Because the pulp is extremely sour, the fruit is usually collected for its seeds rather than eaten directly.
The seeds are typically chewed fresh. Their taste is sharp and bitter, yet aromatic, with a profile that recalls raw coffee beans, followed by a sweet, peppery finish. Once the flavor fades, the fibrous remains are spat out.
Bitter kola can also be prepared as a soothing tea. For step-by-step guidance, see the video in the “Further information” tab below, which shows how to brew this distinctive beverage.
