Traditional use of Garcinia kola Heckel in Nigeria – the results of questionnaire survey compared with scientific evidence

TL;DR

This study explores how bitter kola is traditionally used in Nigeria and compares these uses with scientific evidence to assess its potential health benefits.

Contribution

The study documents traditional uses of Garcinia kola in Nigeria and evaluates their alignment with scientific findings.

Findings

Traditional uses of bitter kola align with scientific evidence for antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and hepatoprotective effects.

Most participants used fresh seeds for respiratory symptoms, stomach issues, and general well-being.

Further research is needed to standardize dosages and safety for different plant parts.

Abstract

Bitter kola, Garcinia kola Heckel, is a woody plant native to West and Central Africa. It is traditionally used both in social ceremonies and for treating a wide range of ailments, including malaria, respiratory infections, gastrointestinal disturbances, hepatitis, metabolic and sexual disorders. Despite its importance and popularity, a great deal of information and basic knowledge is still missing about the species. Particularly lack of studies is related to therapeutic efficacy and safety of bitter kola uses.

This study aimed to document ethnomedicinal uses of bitter kola among native populations in Nigeria, to identify commonly used plant parts and the dosages, record perceived side effects and to compare these findings with scientific evidence, and to estimate its potential clinical applications.

Data were collected by a structured questionnaire distributed both online and in-person to members of the Nigerian public.

A total of 152 respondents participated, primarily from the Ibibio, Annang, and Igbo ethnic groups. Most participants reported using fresh seeds of bitter kola, mainly for treating respiratory symptoms, stomach upset, and general well-being. Regular use was common, typically, monthly or as needed, depending on the disease.

Several traditional uses of bitter kola are supported by clinical studies: including its antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects and its benefits for gastric, hepatic, glycemic, respiratory, reproductive and pain-modulation related conditions. Evidence also suggests antimicrobial and hepatoprotective potential. However, further studies are required to establish standardised dosages and safety profiles for different plant parts.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-026-05287-5.

Figures