Coca flour facts for kids

Coca flour is a special kind of flour made from the dried leaves of the coca plant. These plants are called Erythroxylum coca or Erythroxylum novogranatense. People grind the whole coca leaves into a fine powder to make this flour.

You can find coca flour sold in stores in countries like Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru. It is often used in these areas as a healthy ingredient in many foods. People add it to breads, cakes, candies, juices, and even breakfast cereals.

In the Andes mountains, many people believe coca flour is a natural way to help with different health issues. They use it for problems like stomach aches (gastritis), cramps (colic), joint pain (rheumatism and arthritis), and even dry coughs. Some also use it for conditions like high cholesterol and diabetes.

Coca flour is also available as a food supplement, often in capsules. This is because it contains many good things found in the coca leaf. It has important minerals like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus. It also provides vitamins such as B1, B2, C, and E. Plus, it offers other nutrients like protein and fiber.