The Amazing  Coca Leafs

The Amazing  Coca Leaf-Inka-Trail-Backpacker

Coca Tea is highly recommended for adapting to the altitude in Cusco, and you can also bring coca leafs on the Inca Trail to Machupicchu trek.  For centuries, indigenous peoples in the Andean region have chewed coca leaves and drank coca tea. It is a practice that does no harm and is even beneficial for human health.

It should be noted that coca leaves are not a drug at all.

Even though one of its compounds can be concentrated and turned into a narcotic. Coca leaves contain proteins, vitamins, and minerals that make them not only an excellent nutritional option but also a way to cure various diseases.

Nutritional values of Coca leaves

Coca leaves are consumed by chewing or in beverages or infusions made from an extract.

The nutritional values of coca leaves are:

They contain alkaloids that stimulate the body.

They have a high amount of protein and vitamins, which give a lot of energy to the body.

They have a high content of minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.

They are rich in flavonoids and antioxidants that prevent the onset of diseases.

The Amazing  Coca Leaf-Inka-Trail-Backpacker

Benefits of coca leaves

This plant is not addictive and provides the body with various benefits. Its use is recommended for:

• Alleviating altitude sickness.
• Preventing cardiovascular diseases.
• Protecting against cavities.
• Fighting colon cancer.
• Avoiding obesity.
• Eliminating depression.

Treating respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis. Regulating blood pressure. Curing stomach problems. Controlling diabetes.

Coca leaves in Inca times Coca leaves are an ancient plant that was used in pre-Inca and Inca times and can be harvested between 1500 and 1900 meters above sea level. In pre-Inca cultures, its use was widespread among the population in general, and it was used to relieve pain and as an incentive in physical labor. Coca leaves were considered a “mystical plant” that only the Inca could access for religious ceremonies. Sacrifices were made to ensure that their ancestors protected them. In addition, it helped them predict the future by observing the coca leaves after chewing them and spitting them into their hands. Coca leaves were also used as barter to exchange goods with other peoples, such as charqui, potatoes, chili peppers, and cotton.

Where to buy coca leaves in Cusco?

Coca leaves can be found in the Central Market of San Pedro and as teas in any supermarket or mini-market in Cusco. Coca leaves have various presentations such as infusions, candies, coca flour, coca cookies, coca toffees, coca jam, and bulk coca leaves.

Coca leaves have been used over time by Andean inhabitants because of their many medicinal and nutritional properties.

It is another way that can be used to combat bodily ailments. If you travel to the Andes for different tours like Salkantay trek, Inca Trail, Humantay Lake, or Rainbow Mounain, do not forget to have coca leaves to counteract the high altitude.

If you are planning to do any of these tours, contact us. We are Inka Trail Backpacker, a company dedicated to providing the best service with the responsibility and safety that you deserve.

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