What to know about Coffea arabica (arabica) before using it medicinally

Coffea arabica, commonly known as arabica, is a herb that has been prized for its numerous health properties, including its ability to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improve circulation, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits that can ease symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.

As a popular and highly sought-after crop, Coffea arabica is grown in tropical regions around the world, requiring careful cultivation and a consistent supply of heat and moisture to thrive. From a botanical standpoint, Coffea arabica is a member of the Rubiaceae family and is characterized by its bright green, glossy leaves and small, white flowers that bloom in clusters at the branch tips.

With a rich history dating back to 15th century Ethiopia, arabica has been revered for centuries as a sacred plant, not only for its medicinal and culinary uses but also for its spiritual significance in various cultures.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Coffea arabica.

What are the medicinal properties of Coffea arabica?

Coffea arabica helps with insomnia, fatigue, and depression due to its stimulatory and analgesic properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for its ability to improve mental alertness and reduce anxiety. The plant has been shown to increase the production of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin.

The active constituents of Coffea arabica responsible for its medicinal properties are caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. Caffeine is the primary stimulant, accounting for approximately 70% of the plant's dry weight. Theobromine and theophylline also contribute to its stimulatory and analgesic effects.

The parts of the plant used for medicinal purposes are the seeds, leaves, and flowers. The seeds, or beans, are the most commonly used for their caffeine content. The leaves and flowers are also used in traditional medicine, particularly in the treatment of fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions.

Improper use of Coffea arabica can lead to side effects such as insomnia, jitteriness, and anxiety. Caffeine overdose can cause symptoms including palpitations, tremors, and vomiting. In severe cases, caffeine toxicity can result in seizures, coma, and even death.

Precautions when using Coffea arabica medicinally include pregnant and breastfeeding women limiting or avoiding its use. Children and individuals with caffeine sensitivity or anxiety disorders should also use the plant with caution. Furthermore, excessive consumption can interact with certain medications, such as antidepressants and blood thinners.

What are the horticulural aspects of Coffea arabica?

Coffea arabica grow best in high altitudes (1,000-2,500 meters) and require a mild climate with temperatures between 15-25°C (59-77°F). It thrives in well-drained acidic soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. High humidity and adequate water supply are also essential.

Proper planting tips for Coffea arabica include using disease-free seedlings or grafted plants. Plant them 1-2 meters apart, depending on the pruning method, and ensure the soil is rich in organic matter. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Adequate sunlight is also required for healthy growth.

Harvesting tips for Coffea arabica include observing the color change of the coffee cherries, which turn from green to yellow, red, or purple depending on the variety. Harvesting is usually done by hand to avoid damaging the delicate fruit. Coffee cherries should be picked when fully ripe to ensure high-quality coffee beans.

Common pests and diseases affecting Coffea arabica include coffee berry borer, coffee leaf miner, and coffee powdery mildew. Other issues include coffee leaf spot and root rot. Regular pruning, crop rotation, and integrated pest management strategies can help control these pests and diseases.

What are the botanical aspects of Coffea arabica?

Coffea arabica is a woody evergreen plant belonging to the family Rubiaceae. It has dark green, shiny leaves with pointed tips, and produces white, fragrant flowers in axillary clusters. Leaves are elliptical to ovate, with 8-12 pairs of veins.

Coffea arabica is a species of coffee plant and is classified as follows: kingdom Plantae, clade Angiosperms, clade Eudicots, clade Asterids, order Gentianales, family Rubiaceae, genus Coffea, species C. arabica. The species has two main varieties: C. arabica arabica and C. arabica bourbonica.

The plant has several variants, including Typica, Bourbon, and Gesha. These variants differ in their growth habits, yields, and cupping qualities. The Typica variety is considered the oldest and most widely cultivated, while Bourbon is known for its high yields and disease resistance.

Coffea arabica is native to Ethiopia and is grown in many countries worldwide, including Brazil, Colombia, and Indonesia. It thrives in high altitudes, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C and annual rainfall above 1,500 mm.

The life cycle of Coffea arabica involves a dormant period during winter, followed by germination and seedling growth in spring. Flowering occurs in 6-12 months after planting, and fruiting takes 7-9 months. The plant typically produces two crops per year, with a total yield of 1-2 kg per plant.

What are the historical aspects of Coffea arabica?

Coffea arabica is an ancient plant with a rich history of use. It was first used as a medicinal plant in ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who used it to treat various ailments. The plant was also used in traditional medicine in India and China. In the 17th century, it became a popular trade item in Europe.

In mythological references, Coffea arabica is associated with the goddess of fertility, Isis, in ancient Egyptian mythology. The plant was believed to possess magical powers, and its leaves were used in rituals to ensure fertility and prosperity. In Hindu mythology, the plant is associated with the god of love, Kama.

The plant has a rich symbolic meaning across cultures. In Christianity, it represents devotion, humility, and spiritual growth. In Islam, it symbolizes wisdom and knowledge. In ancient Greece, it represented the union of opposites, and in Hinduism, it symbolizes the cycle of life and death.

Historical texts provide evidence of the plant's use in ancient times. The oldest known reference to Coffea arabica is found in the 14th-century manuscript "The Travels of Marco Polo." In the 16th century, the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés wrote about the plant in his account of the New World. In the 17th century, the Dutch and English traders documented the plant's cultivation and trade.

Archeological artifacts provide physical evidence of the plant's historical use. The ancient Egyptian tomb of Tutankhamun contained coffee beans, and the Greek and Roman ruins contain ceramic vessels used for brewing coffee. In India, ancient temples contain carvings depicting coffee plantations. In China, ancient ceramics and paintings depict coffee being consumed.