What Are the Benefits of Coca Leaves?

Its scientific name is Erythroxylum coca, but coca leaves are most notably recognized as the base ingredient for the powerful narcotic cocaine. Yet, the coca leaf itself is prized among local cultures in the areas where it is grown as a mild stimulant and medicinal plant.

Historical Benefit

• Andean cultures have been cultivating coca leaf for thousands of years. The priesthood used coca leaves in religious ceremonies, and economically it was even used as a form of currency.

Nutritional Value

• According to the Latin America security resource, Comunidad Segura, a study conducted by Harvard University found that chewing 100 grams of coca leaves provides an adult with a full day of nutritional sustenance. This is primarily due to the plant's natural abundance of proteins and nutrients like calcium and vitamin A.

Medicinal Qualities

• In 2006, the Media Awareness Project published a report on the medicinal qualities of coca leaves. According to their research, coca leaves act as a natural stimulant, packing about the same punch as a cup of coffee or soda. In fact, Coca Cola used small quantities of coca for its beverages until government policies changed in 1906.