The health benefits of coca leaf

There are about 250 species of Erythroxylum (coca); being the species of greater quality and presence in Peru the Eritroxylum coca. Coca and Erythroxylum novogranatense Var. Truxillense; both have similar composition with different concentration. Erythroxylum novogranatense Var. Truxillense (Premium coca leaves); It has small, delicate light green leaves. This species shows tolerance to dryness, it tends to resist prolonged droughts better than any other crop, which is why it is cultivated in the northern part of Peru (Trujillo).

This coca leaf is widely accepted due to the pleasant flavor of its leaves due to its higher content of volatile fatty acids; that give the coca leaves their special aroma, above all very natural; having among its components methyl salicylate. Among other features; highlights the higher content of calcium and phosphorus; making this species have a greater amount of minerals perfect for our body.

Also another reason; to prefer this product; is that it has a higher content of carotenoids; who are known for their powerful antioxidant effects; They also help improve the immune system. Its nature as a vitamin A enhancer makes it a very beneficial element for sight, the formation of bones and red blood cells in the human body.

What is coke?
Coca is a shrub native to South America and of better quality in Peru and Colombia, where it has been cultivated since ancient times.
Coca leaves are cultivated four times a year and currently its cultivation has spread to several countries in the world.
Coca is a plant alkaloid like tea and coffee.
There are several alkaloids that coca leaves contain and one of them is cocaine.

Benefits and properties of coca leaves:

• Coca is very rich in fiber.
• Strengthens the intestinal flora.
• Being very rich in calcium helps in the prevention of osteoporosis.
• Effective in the treatment of obesity.
• Increases physical resistance.
• Digestive and diuretic.
• It stimulates respiratory function and fights altitude sickness.
• Prevents diarrhea.
• Regulates carbohydrate metabolism.
• Helps fight arthritis, rheumatism, etc.
• Helps in the elimination of fats.
• Improves liver function.

YOU CAN ALSO SEE: Nutritional and medicinal properties of beets.

How to consume the coca leaf:
Coca leaves can be found in the form of flour that we can add to our stews. Also in bags to prepare tea or mate from coca leaves.