Is bitter kola good for fertility? There is no human research that shows bitter kola improves fertility in men or in women. If you are trying for a baby, your doctor is the right person to ask.
What the research says
- A 2023 review in Phytochemistry Reviews (Tauchen and colleagues) found that the effects of Garcinia kola reported so far have been seen only in animal models, and that human clinical trials are still needed. Read the review.
- A 2022 review in Advances in Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences (Dogara and colleagues) notes that in the studies it covered, too much of the seeds caused low fertility and toxicity. It also says safety and efficacy “have not been wholly assessed in humans.”
So the research does not support bitter kola as a fertility aid, and it raises questions about eating large amounts. We sell bitter kola as a food and make no health claims about it.
Bitter kola for men
You will find pages that promise stronger sperm or better performance. We have found no human studies that back those promises. If you have concerns about male fertility, see a doctor.
Bitter kola for women
The same is true for women. If you are trying to conceive, are pregnant or are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor or midwife before eating bitter kola.
How bitter kola is really used
In Nigeria, bitter kola is a food and a sign of welcome. It is served to guests whole and unpeeled, and each guest peels their own. People chew it and cook with it. Read what is bitter kola and how to eat bitter kola.
Questions people ask
Does bitter kola increase sperm count? We have found no human research that shows it does.
Is bitter kola good for women trying to conceive? There is no human research that shows it helps. Ask your doctor.
How much bitter kola is too much? There is no official safe amount. Treat it as a strong food, and ask your doctor if you have a health condition.
Is bitter kola the same as kola nut? No. Read bitter kola vs kola nut.
Where to buy bitter kola
Jeb Foods Bitter Kola Nut, 0.5 lb is whole Nigerian bitter kola, shipped across the US from New Jersey. Prefer it ground? See Bitter Kola Powder, 4 oz.
Part of the profit funds our nonprofit organization, Save All Africa Kids (saak.org).