Coca (Erythroxylum coca)

Coca (Erythroxylum coca) is a member of the Erythroxylaceae family, native to Andes Mountains, South America, Peru, and Bolivia. Traditionally, its leaves, stems, and bark have been used for infusions, powders, and decoctions.

This herb is particularly valued for its stimulant, anti-inflammatory, and tonic actions, and has a long history of use in native american herbal medicine, tibetan medicine, and european herbal medicine.

Coca (Erythroxylum coca) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Coca (Erythroxylum coca) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Coca
Scientific Name	Erythroxylum coca
Plant Family	Erythroxylaceae
Genus	Erythroxylum
Species	coca
Native Range	Andes Mountains, South America, Peru, Bolivia
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Stems, Bark
Primary Medicinal Actions	Stimulant, Anti-Inflammatory, Tonic
Primary Traditional Systems	Native American Herbal Medicine, Tibetan Medicine, European Herbal Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Powder, Decoction

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Erythroxylum coca
Common Name: Coca
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Andean Coca, Coca Leaf, Coca Leaf
Plant Family: Erythroxylaceae
Genus: Erythroxylum

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 1 to 3 meters.
Leaves: Broad leaves with upper surface dark green and lower surface pale green, exhibiting stomatal bands.
Flowers: Inflorescences are racemose clusters with actinomorphic flowers having five white to pale pink petals and five yellow stamens.
Stems: Erect, woody, branched stems with opposite, sessile, glandular-pubescent leaves.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

Native American Herbal Medicine
Tibetan Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Powder
Decoction
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Stimulant: Commonly referenced as a gentle stimulant, in energy-related contexts.
Anti-inflammatory: As described in traditional systems, a cooling anti-inflammatory, in tissue-soothing contexts.
Tonic: Traditionally described as a moderate tonic, for foundational support.
Expectorant: In herbal texts, considered a soothing expectorant, for breathing-focused uses.

Active Compounds

Alkaloid: A class of nitrogen-containing compounds produced by many plant species.
Flavonoid: Naturally occurring polyphenols that contribute to pigmentation and structural chemistry.
Tannin: Plant-derived compounds known for their ability to bind proteins.
Phenolic Acid: Organic acids commonly occurring as part of plant secondary metabolism.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific research related to this plant is ongoing. This section will be expanded in the future to include summaries of phytochemical studies, laboratory research, and other relevant scientific literature as it becomes available.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
Contraindications: Certain contraindications have been reported in relation to the use of this herb.
Allergies: Sensitivity or allergy-related effects have not been clearly established.
Drug Interactions: Interactions between this herb and prescription medications have been noted in traditional use and literature.
Toxicity: Toxic effects have been reported in association with the use of this herb.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Information addressing pregnancy and breastfeeding-related safety for this herb is limited.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: A preparation method involving steeping plant material in heated water for a short period.
Decoction: This method uses sustained heat to extract compounds from firm plant structures.
Poultice: Fresh or dried plant material is applied externally to the skin.
Powder: This method converts dried plant material into a uniform powder.
Tincture: This method preserves plant compounds using an alcohol-based solution.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with moderately well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.