Uncover the Mysteries of Peru Coca Leaves: Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

Q: What are Peruvian coca leaves?

Accepted Answer

A: Peruvian coca leaves refer to the dried green leaves of the Erythroxylum Coca plant which grows mainly in Peru and other parts of South America. Indigeneous people have traditionally chewed them as a natural stimulant or brewed them into tea.

Question 2

Q: Why do people chew Peruvian coca leaves?

Accepted Answer

A: The indigenous people chewed these leaves as an alternative to caffeine for increased alertness, and as medicine- it was believed to treat altitude sickness, stomach problems such as indigestion or ulcers, hunger pangs among others

Question 3

Q: Is chewing Peruvian coca leaves legal?

Accepted Answer

A: Chewing and consuming fresh or dried coca leaf is legal in Peru and several other countries such as Bolivia. While not legal everywhere else, it remains a grey area regulated under laws marked out by individual countries. Consuming fresh cocaine from tender "coqueo" has even been designated Intangible Cultural Heritage Status by UNESCO because of its cultural significance!

Question 4

Q: Are there any benefits associated with Peruvian Coca leaves besides their medicinal properties?

Accepted Answer

A: Besides easing altitude sickness-related symptoms like headaches or nausea often caused when visiting high-altitude locations above 3 kilometers above sea level around the Andes range, the plant is said to increase alertness and provide a slight energy boost.

Question 5

Q: Can Peruvian coca leaves make you high?

Accepted Answer

A: Pure Peruvian coca leaves contain minimal amounts of cocaine content, so they will not get you “high” as such. However, processed forms of the leaf can lead to addiction if abused or misused.

Question 6

Q: How do I consume Peruvian coca leaves?

Accepted Answer

A: You can chew the fresh or dried leaves directly, brew them into a tea for medicinal effects, mix them with other substances like lime juice if not brewed as tea or use chewing gum that has been infused with extract from the plant.

Question 7

Q: Is it safe to consume Peruvian coca leaves?

Accepted Answer

A: Yes and no! Natural consumption (chewing) of fresh whole Coca Leaf is generally safe when taken in moderation since its active components are diluted by saliva. The same cannot be said for processing cocaine which has addictive properties! Also note that high consumption quantities such as those consumed by miners or farmers often to satisfy hunger pangs can cause…