This was originally from the Amazonian region of Brazil. This preparation is rich in caffeine. The ground seeds are made into a paste that sets up like a brick. A soft drink prepared with this material is similar to cola flavors. The seeds of the plant are also fermented in the manufacture of the flavoring.
Cola is native to West Africa where it has been used for a long time.
The pulp of the fruits is also eaten in many African countries. The seeds are dried and ground to make a beverage in West Africa. This plant also contains caffeine. It as an integral part of social and religious life there.