The kola (cola) nut has a bitter flavor and contains caffeine. It is chewed in many West African cultures, individually or in a group setting. It is often used ceremonially, presented to tribal chiefs or guests.

Kola was used to make cola soft drinks, though today most of these mass-produced beverages use artificial flavourings. Some exceptions are Pepsi's new Pepsi Raw, Barr's Red Kola, Red Bull's new Simply Cola, Harboe Original Taste Cola, and Blue Sky Organic Cola.

Eating kola nuts creates a sensation of euphoria and well being, enhancing alertness and physical energy, elevating mood, increasing tactile sensitivity and suppressing appetite.

It is preferred among African Muslims, who are forbidden to drink alcohol. Chewing kola nut can ease hunger pangs. Frequent chewing of the kola nut can also lead to stained teeth. Among the urban youth of West Africa, kola nut is becoming less popular.

The kola tree is a genus of about 125 species of trees native to the tropical rain forests of Africa and is related to South African Cacao.

-Wikipedia-