Why Tea Made From Coca Leaves Is Good For Your Health

Tea made from coca leaves, also known as “Mate de Coca”, has a stimulating effect that is similar to that of coffee. It is also drunk after meals to aid digestion.

All over the world,  coca leaf tea is becoming increasingly popular because of its numerous healthy properties. In addition to its symbolic significance in the Andean region, it is an amazing wake-up call. Its effect is similar to that of coffee. In this article we will introduce you to the beneficial effects of tea made from coca leaves .

What are coca leaves?

The coca bush is native to the Andean regions of Bolivia and Peru. But it also occurs in Colombia, Ecuador, Chile and Argentina.

In these countries people drink tea made from coca leaves, also known as “Mate de Coca”. The tea has medicinal as well as spiritual significance.

The stimulating effect is comparable to that of coffee. Just like coffee, it can also be drunk after a meal to stimulate digestion.

Although coca tea is naturally stimulating, it is not stimulating. Therefore you can drink it at any time of the day without causing nervousness or sleep disturbances.

Is coca leaf tea legal?

In the Andes, tea has always been used to combat altitude sickness because it has no harmful side effects.

Traditionally, coca leaves are chewed to increase the uptake of oxygen in the blood and brain.

Another method (“chaqchada”) consists in chewing the leaves until they form an elongated lump. This is then left to dry and smoked like a cigarette.

In Germany, the consumption and possession of coca leaves and powder is prohibited by law. The concentration of cocaine in the dried leaves is very low (between 0.1 and 0.8%), so there is no poisoning or dependence.

Positive effects on health

Coca leaves are rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, and E. It also contains the minerals calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium and potassium.

In addition, the leaves of the coca bush contain tannins and 14 different alkaloids, one of which is cocaine.

The following health benefits of coca leaves have been observed:

• They regulate blood pressure and promote the uptake of oxygen in the blood and brain.
• They stimulate the respiratory system.
• Coca leaves have a positive effect on digestion. They also improve the metabolism of carbohydrates and help people who have problems with flour and sugar.
• They prevent anemia.
• They have an analgesic effect, so they help with arthritis and rheumatism.
• Coca leaves support the liver and detoxify the blood. Accumulated fats in the liver are broken down and converted into energy.
• They prevent fluid from being stored in the tissue.
• Coca leaves improve attention, concentration and memory. They also ensure greater physical stamina.

• Obesity and bulimia are prevented by controlling the appetite, but not suppressing it completely.
• They clean the urinary tract and prevent inflammation. In addition, they also help with diarrhea.
• Coca leaves lower cholesterol levels.
• They prevent premature aging.
• By strengthening the intestinal flora, they support the immune system.

What is the symbolic meaning of coca?

The coca bush is a sacred plant in the Inca culture. The indigenous people of Peru ingest coca leaves to gain mystical abilities. These include, for example, clairvoyance or the ability to see auras. Coca is often used in rituals that also involve fasting.

The coca plant is said to have both physical and spiritual healing properties.

Making tea from coca leaves

In America you can get coca leaves whole or packed in tea bags.

Whole tea leaves

• Boil the water in a saucepan and add about 5 to 6 coca leaves per cup.
• Let the leaves cook for a maximum of 5 minutes.
• Then drain and serve with a little honey or brown sugar.

Teabag

• Pour boiling water over the bag and let it steep for 5 minutes.