Coca leaf contraindications We recently received questions about coca leaves such as the following: Does the coca leaf have contraindications? Do you have coca: benefits and contraindications? Does coca tea have benefits? What are the benefits of coca, coca leaf or coca tea? Does it have coca tea: benefits and contraindications?
In order to give answers, we are going to start with its botanical aspect:
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General features
The coca plant has a dangerous reputation around the world, due to its role in the production of illegal drugs, but there are also some health benefits when the plant is used properly.
Coca refers to one of four different plants, traditionally cultivated in South and Central America. The reason why this plant is so well known all over the world is due to an active ingredient present in it, an alkaloid called cocaine.
Through a relatively simple extraction process, coca leaves can be separated from their antioxidants and a powerful stimulant, cocaine, can be created. For that reason, coca leaves are illegal in many countries, as is the cultivation or processing of these plants.
However, the Coca leaves they have been used for cultural, medicinal, and spiritual reasons for hundreds, if not thousands of years, by indigenous people in these areas. When used responsibly, there are some important health benefits to consider.
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Coca Nutrition Facts
The leaves of the coca plant are composed primarily of protein, fiber, and vitamin C, as well as high levels of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin D, and vitamin E, along with calcium, iron, zinc, phosphorus and copper. among others.
The leaves also contain alkaloids, such as nicotine, hygrine, and ecgonine, in addition to cocaine.
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coca benefits
The main benefits of the leaves of the coca plant include its effect on the following:
Eliminate altitude sickness or mountain sickness The presence of many alkaloids and B vitamins helps increase blood flow and oxygen uptake, especially at high altitudes.
A 12-day, placebo-controlled study of 24 high-altitude hikers en route to Mt. Everest Base Camp (2400 m / 8,000 ft / to 5400 m / 17,600 ft ascent) showed that coca leaves reduced subjective symptoms of altitude sicknesssuch as nausea, headaches, and shortness of breath. Oxygen saturation also improved.
A 2.5-hour pilot study of 10 adults exercising at 2,700 m showed that chewing coca leaves increased blood glucose levels. It appears their bodies switched from using glucose (glycolysis) to using fatty acids, which can improve physical performance at high altitude.
One of the adaptations to altitude is increased levels of red blood cells (polycythemia) in response to decreased oxygen supply. This can cause dizziness, headache, fatigue and hunger. The alkaloids in the coca plant, including cocaine, suppress these symptoms, which occur at high altitudes. Also, it appears that cocaine may actually decrease blood cell production.
In a study conducted in the 1970s, 14 men chewed coca leaves as they were exposed to mild cold stress (15 degrees Celsius) for 2 hours. Compared to their own responses without coke, they had a more gradual decline in core temperature. This increase in heat conservation could also help against altitude sickness
Help to lose weight The abundant alkaloids in coca tea help to lose weight. The alkaloids boost metabolism and keep muscle glycogen intact. They also enhance the body’s natural ability to burn calories.
Strengthens the body’s immune system The increased concentrations of vitamins and antioxidants in the coca plant improves the functioning of the immune system.
Improves mood and fights fatigue Coca leaves allow for stimulation and can improve energy levels, decrease fatigue and improve mood.
Helps control depression A cup of coca tea is more than just a great way to start your morning – it can actually lighten your mood and give you some positive vibes, making you more likely to strike up a conversation and form or renew relationships with others. the rest.
Helps prevent cancer Recent studies have shown that chewing coca leaf or drinking coca tea regularly promotes overall colon health, thereby reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Relieves premenstrual syndrome The short-term effects of consuming coca tea can ease PMS, reducing painful cramps, headaches, and bloating, as well as tempering your mood. Since this herbal drink is 100% natural, coca tea is an excellent alternative to artificial pain relievers.
Acts as a source of antioxidants Certain natural compounds present in coca tea inhibit oxidation processes, thus promoting general health at the cellular level, reducing the risk of tumors and having a moderate anti-aging effect. Also, some of these antioxidants, called polyphenols, lower cholesterol levels, so they may be beneficial for people with heart disease and high blood pressure.
Alleviate the pain Traditionally, coca leaves have been used as a local anesthetic and pain reliever, to relieve stomach and digestive pain, and to treat toothaches and sores in the mouth.
In an animal study, cocaine, as well as other alkaloids from the coca leaf, caused local anesthesia in rats. In fact, cocaine is sometimes used as an anesthetic for surgical procedures. It inhibits sodium channels, which decreases nerve impulse conduction and neuropathic pain.
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uses of coca
In addition to being processed into cocaine, coca leaves are mainly used in two ways: as a tea or chewed directly.
Also known as mate de coca, coca tea is made with raw, dried leaves of the coca plant steeped in hot water. This allows for the effective extraction of phytonutrients from the leaf, making it a powerful uplifting brew, just like coffee, but without the caffeine.
It is important to note that in the form of tea and chewed they can generate health benefits for the body, but also contraindications and side effects in some of the people listed below:
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Contraindications and side effects of coca
Contraindications of the coca leaf #1 Pregnant women should avoid coca consumption, particularly if it has not been decooked.
Contraindications of the coca leaf #2 Chewing coca leaves could cause:
- tingling lips
- Nausea
- Stomachache
Contraindications of the coca leaf #3 Coca tea contains alkaloids related to cocaine. Therefore, people who consume coca tea may test positive for cocaine.
There are some side effects of the coca plant, particularly if you have a history of the following:
- high blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Asthma
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