Erythroxylum coca
Erythroxylum coca · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Erythroxylum coca is a notable plant species primarily recognized for the presence of its active alkaloid, cocaine, within its leaves. Various preparations of the plant, including air-dried leaves, heat-dried specimens, decoctions, and homeopathic medicines, are utilized in different contexts. The chemical profile of the plant also includes substances such as N-Methylputrescine, which contributes to its complex biological activities. Research indicates that its components function through several mechanisms, acting as 11B-HSD-inhibitors, 5-alpha-reductase-inhibitors, 5-HT-inhibitors, and 5-lipoxygenase-inhibitors. These pharmacological properties are studied in relation to diverse conditions such as motion sickness, physical fitness, and weight reduction.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Erythroxylaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Erythroxylum coca is a plant recognized globally by a variety of distinctive common names. While it is most widely known simply as Coca, this botanical species is also referred to as Cocastrauch in certain contexts. Regional variations further expand its nomenclature, with many calling it Khoka or Koka. Additionally, the name Kuka is frequently employed to describe this specific plant. These diverse linguistic labels reflect the widespread presence and cultural significance of the species across different regions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Erythroxylum coca is a fascinating specimen belonging to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, the plant is categorized under the class Equisetopsida. It further falls into the order Malpighiales, showcasing its specific evolutionary lineage. As a member of the family Erythroxylaceae, it displays unique characteristics shared with its close relatives. Ultimately, this species is defined by its classification within the genus Erythroxylum.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Erythroxylaceae |
| Genus | Erythroxylum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Erythroxylum coca exhibits a diverse geographical presence that stretches across several major continents. In Africa, the species is widely distributed, ranging from the eastern landscapes of Tanzania to the western reaches of Guinea-Bissau. Its footprint continues through West-Central Tropical Africa, specifically encompassing Cameroon and the islands of the Gulf of Guinea. Beyond the African continent, the plant also finds a foothold in the temperate regions of Asia. Specifically, its distribution extends as far as the Kazan-retto area of Eastern Asia.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Erythroxylum coca typically presents as a compact shrub that grows in a self-supporting manner. This resilient plant maintains a relatively modest stature, reaching a maximum height of only 1.5 meters. Such a growth form allows it to thrive effectively within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Erythroxylum coca is a plant notable for its complex chemical composition, most significantly containing cocaine as its principal alkaloid. Beyond its alkaloid content, nutritional analyses reveal that the leaves also contain essential minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium. Research further indicates that the plant provides trace amounts of vitamin D to the consumer. While these components are present, studies suggest that the plant does not provide sufficient nutritional benefits to be recommended as a primary food source. Ultimately, the presence of absorbable cocaine may outweigh the potential dietary advantages of its mineral and vitamin content.
Conditions
Erythroxylum coca contains cocaine and can be utilized as a treatment for cocaine dependence. The plant also serves as a useful remedy for various gastrointestinal ailments and motion sickness. Additionally, it can function as an adjunct in programs focused on weight reduction and physical fitness. These diverse therapeutic applications highlight the multifaceted medicinal potential of the coca leaf.
Preparations
Erythroxylum coca is prepared as air-dried or heat-dried specimens to ensure the retention of chemical constituents for phytochemical screening. In traditional Colombian medicinal practices, the plant is also prepared as decoctions and infusions for use within indigenous and campesino health systems. Furthermore, Erythroxylum coca has been grown historically as a source of homeopathic medicine. These diverse methods of preparation reflect both scientific preservation needs and long-standing ethnobotanical traditions.
Parts used
Erythroxylum coca is a plant of significant biochemical interest, particularly regarding its leaves which serve as the primary source of various alkaloids. Scientific analysis has established that cocaine and cinnamoylcocaine are the main endogenous alkaloids found within these leaves. The concentration of these substances can vary significantly based on the age of the leaf and the specific variety of the plant. Research also indicates that the chemical properties of the leaf are influenced by the alkaline substances used during traditional chewing practices. Furthermore, studies on dietary supplements show that the presence of these leaf components can impact energy metabolism and fat utilization in biological models.