Can Bitter Kola Help with Erectile Dysfunction?

Bitter kola (also called Garcinia kola) is a small bitter nut linked to many health benefits. This powerful nut has long been used in African traditional medicine (particularly in Nigeria), and some people believe it can help men with erectile dysfunction (ED). But does science agree?

What the Research Says:

Small Human Study Shows Promise
A recent study in Cameroon tested bitter kola on men with mild ED. The group that ate 20 grams per day (about 2–3 nuts) for 12 weeks had better erections than the group that ate less. There were no major side effects, which is a good sign. But it was a small study, so we need more research to be 100% sure.

Animal Studies Are Encouraging
Studies on rats showed that bitter kola can:

• Boost sexual activity
• Improve sperm count
• Raise testosterone levels

But interestingly, lower doses worked better than higher ones, and using too much for too long might reduce the benefits.

Good for Blood Flow and Hormones
Lab tests found that bitter kola helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. It also has antioxidants that support overall health, which can help with sexual performance too.

Not All Studies Agree
Some scientists didn’t find any changes in sexual health after giving bitter kola to animals. So the evidence is mixed.

The Studies

1. Human Clinical Trial

• Title: A new treatment for mild erectile dysfunction with Garcinia kola nuts: a phase II randomised clinical trial
• Summary: This 2025 study conducted at Yaoundé Central Hospital in Cameroon involved 40 men with mild erectile dysfunction. Participants were divided into two groups, receiving either 10 grams or 20 grams of Garcinia kola daily for 12 weeks. The group consuming 20 grams per day showed significant improvement in erectile function scores compared to the lower-dose group, with no major side effects reported.
• Link: https://africanurology.com/index.php/au/article/view/200

2. Animal Study on Sexual Behaviour and Hormones

• Title: Dose- and time-dependent effects of Garcinia kola seed extract on sexual behaviour and reproductive parameters in male Wistar rats
• Summary: This study investigated the effects of Garcinia kola seed extract on male Wistar rats. Results indicated that lower doses of the extract enhanced sexual behaviour, increased sperm count, and elevated testosterone levels. However, higher doses over extended periods reduced these benefits.
• Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26123866/

3. Biochemical Study on Enzyme Inhibition

• Title: Garcinia Kola Extracts Improve Biochemical Markers Associated with Erectile Function: Possible Applications in Clinical Treatment?
• Summary: This research explored how Garcinia kola extracts affect enzymes related to erectile function. The study found that the extracts inhibited enzymes like phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5), arginase, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which are involved in erectile function. Additionally, the extracts exhibited antioxidant properties that may support erectile health.
• Link: https://publisher.medfak.ni.ac.rs/AFMN_1/2019/1-2019/full%20text/02Adebola%20Busola%20Ojo.pdf

4. Contradictory Animal Study

• Title: Garcinia kola seeds: Is the aqueous extract a true aphrodisiac in male Wistar rats?
• Summary: This study evaluated the effects of aqueous extracts of Garcinia kola seeds on male rats. The findings showed no significant changes in sexual behaviour or hormone levels, challenging traditional beliefs about its efficacy in enhancing sexual performance.
• Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23983388/

These studies provide a mix of findings, highlighting the need for further research to conclusively determine the efficacy and safety of Garcinia kola in treating erectile dysfunction.

The Bottom Line:

There’s early proof that bitter kola might help with mild erectile dysfunction, especially at the right dose. But more big studies are needed to say for sure. If you’re thinking of trying it, talk to your doctor first.