Coca facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coca |
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Erythroxylaceae
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Erythroxylum
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E. coca
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| Erythroxylum coca |
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Coca is a special plant that grows in north-western South America. It belongs to the plant family called Erythroxylaceae. For thousands of years, the coca plant has been very important in the traditional cultures of the Andes Mountains.
People in the Andes have used coca leaves in many ways. Today, this plant still has many different uses around the world.
Contents
History of Coca
People in the Andes region started growing coca plants a very long time ago. They have been cultivating them for thousands of years!
Traditionally, people would chew the fresh coca leaves. They also made a special tea by soaking the leaves in hot water. This tea is called mate de coca. People used coca leaves to help them feel more energetic or to deal with the high altitude in the mountains.
Coca was first brought to Europe in the 1500s. This was during the 16th century.
Healthy Nutrients in Coca Leaves
Raw coca leaves are full of good things for your body. When people chew them or drink them as tea, they get many healthy nutrients.
Coca leaves have important minerals like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus. They also contain vitamins such as B1, B2, C, and E. Plus, they have protein and fiber, which are important for a healthy diet.
Coca and the United Nations
In 1961, the United Nations made a decision about the coca leaf. They listed it as a plant that needed to be controlled. This happened even though studies showed that chewing the leaf itself was not addictive.
Because of this decision, countries like the United States have asked countries where coca grows, such as Peru and Bolivia, to stop growing it. However, Peru and Bolivia have been working to change this decision. They want the coca plant to be removed from the list of controlled plants. They believe the traditional use of coca is important to their culture.
Images for kids
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Coca tree in Colombia
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Coquero (Figure Chewing Coca), an ancient artwork from 850–1500 C.E. at the Brooklyn Museum.
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A man holding a coca leaf in Bolivia.
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Llipta is a special ash used to help get more from the coca leaf when chewing it. (From the Museo de la Coca, Cusco, Peru).
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A warm cup of mate de coca served in a coffee shop in Cusco, Peru.
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Close-up of coca leaves and branches.
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See also
In Spanish: Coca para niños
