Coca

Coca is a plant native to South America, primarily in countries like Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina. Its leaves contain alkaloids, including the stimulant compound cocaine. Traditionally, indigenous peoples have chewed coca leaves to combat fatigue, hunger, and altitude sickness, as the leaves release small amounts of active substances slowly. The plant is culturally significant and used in rituals and daily life. Coca leaves themselves are legal in some countries when used for traditional purposes, but the extraction and production of cocaine from these leaves are illegal in many parts of the world due to the drug’s potential for abuse and health risks.