What it is
Bitter Kola (Garcinia kola) is a tropical plant seed known for its distinct bitter taste, health benefits, and cultural importance. It is native to West and Central Africa and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, food preservation, and ceremonial practices. Bitter kola is often referred to as the “wonder nut” due to its wide range of applications in health and industry.
The seeds are typically brown, oval-shaped, and range from 2–5 cm in size. Each nut contains alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, caffeine, and other phytochemicals that make it highly demanded worldwide.
What export of it is
The export of bitter kola involves:
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Sourcing: Obtaining fresh, mature, and disease-free nuts.
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Sorting & Grading: Selecting nuts based on size, moisture content, and purity.
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Drying: Sun-dried or mechanically dried to reduce moisture to ≤ 10% for export standard.
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Packaging: Packed in clean, moisture-proof bags, cartons, or vacuum-sealed pouches.
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Shipping: Transported via sea or air freight depending on buyer preference.
Exporters must comply with international phytosanitary standards, quality control, and proper documentation such as Certificate of Origin, Phytosanitary Certificate, and Bill of Lading.
Specifications for Export
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Bitter Kola (Garcinia kola) |
| Form | Whole dried seeds / Fresh seeds / Powdered form |
| Size | 2–5 cm per nut |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 10% (export standard) |
| Impurities | ≤ 1% (clean, free from stones, dust, and foreign matter) |
| Color | Brownish outer coat, cream to yellowish inner seed |
| Odor & Taste | Characteristic bitter taste, slightly aromatic |
| Shelf Life | 12–18 months when properly stored in cool, dry conditions |
| Packaging Options | 25kg / 50kg jute bags, poly-lined cartons, vacuum-sealed packs (customizable) |
| Storage Condition | Dry, well-ventilated warehouse, away from direct sunlight |
| HS Code | 1211.90 – Plants & parts of plants used in pharmacy or perfumery |
Uses of Bitter Kola
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Medicinal Applications
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Treatment for coughs, chest colds, and throat infections.
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Contains antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Supports liver health and detoxification.
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Used in natural remedies for malaria symptoms and immune boosting.
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Pharmaceutical & Industrial Applications
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Used in drug formulations for respiratory and gastrointestinal issues.
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Source of bioactive compounds for nutraceuticals and herbal supplements.
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Ingredient in energy-boosting products due to caffeine content.
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Food & Beverage
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Chewed raw for stimulation and as a natural appetite suppressant.
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Used in some traditional beverages and flavoring processes.
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Cultural & Religious Importance
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Exchanged during traditional ceremonies, weddings, and as gifts of honor.
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Used as a symbol of peace and respect in many cultural practices.
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Packaging & Export Form
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Whole Dried Seeds – Most common for export.
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Fresh Seeds – Exported via air freight under strict moisture control.
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Powdered Form – For pharmaceutical or nutraceutical companies.
Packaging materials include:
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Jute bags (25kg & 50kg) with inner polythene lining.
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Cartons or fiber drums for smaller quantities.
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Vacuum-sealed pouches for retail markets.
Market Demand & Export Potential
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Regions of High Demand: Europe (Germany, UK, Netherlands), North America (USA, Canada), Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia), and Asia (China, India).
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End-Users: Pharmaceutical industries, herbal supplement producers, cultural communities, and food processors.
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Market Trend: Increasing demand in the herbal and natural supplement industry due to rising awareness of organic remedies.
Export Documentation Required
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Commercial Invoice
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Packing List
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Certificate of Origin
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Phytosanitary Certificate
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Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
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Export License (depending on jurisdiction)
With proper processing and quality assurance, bitter kola is a premium export commodity with growing demand in international markets.
