coca leaf

Coca leaf refers to the foliage of the *Erythroxylum coca* and *Erythroxylum novogranatense* plants, native to western South America. It contains a complex profile of alkaloids, the most pharmacologically significant being cocaine (benzoylmethylecgonine), which constitutes approximately 0.25% to 0.77% of the leaf's mass. The primary mechanism of action involves the inhibition of the reuptake of monoamine neurotransmitters—dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin—by binding to their respective transporters. This results in increased synaptic concentrations of these neurotransmitters, leading to stimulant, anorectic, and euphoric effects. Additionally, the alkaloids act as local anesthetics by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels. Traditionally, the leaves are chewed or consumed as a tea (mate de coca) to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness (soroche), fatigue, and hunger. While the whole leaf is a controlled substance under international law, it remains a significant cultural and medicinal staple in Andean nations and serves as the raw material for the pharmaceutical production of cocaine hydrochloride and decocainized flavoring agents.

Other names

Erythroxylum cocaErythroxylum novogranatensekukamate de coca