Have you heard about coca tea? This tea has been used for centuries by the people living in the Andes ranges in South America. It contains compounds like inulin, alkaloids and phytonutrients. So, it is beneficial for your health. The coca leaves are also rich in Vitamins A, C, E, B2 and B6. Along with its benefits, coca tea also has some side effects.
Benefits of Coca Tea:
Alleviates altitude sickness:
Coca tea has been used in South America for ages to get relief from the various symptoms of altitude sickness. Some of the symptoms of altitude sickness are nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach upset. Sipping coca tea is a good remedy for these symptoms. Researchers are of the opinion that coca tea contains B vitamins and alkaloids in it, which are responsible for giving coca tea the ability to alleviate altitude sickness. This it does so by improving the oxygen uptake and the blood flow at high altitudes.
Boosts energy:
The leaves of coca plant contain a compound called inulin. It provides a stimulatory effect. According to research made, this compound has the ability boost the energy levels in your body. It also improves mental focus. The stimulatory effect of this tea is similar to that of coffee, but coca tea does not contain caffeine. Moreover, the cellular mechanisms it works through are different.
Boosts immune system:
Coca tea contains vitamins in high amounts. These vitamins have antioxidant properties and play a great role in giving a boost to your immune system. As a result, your body will be able to fight against and destroy compounds present in your blood stream in a better way. These compounds may be toxic to your body and cause various health issues.
Lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease:
According to research made, coca tea contains Vitamins C and E, which make this tea very beneficial for health. These nutrients and their antioxidant properties can also help in lowering the risk of developing different types of cardiovascular diseases.
Promotes weight loss:
According to experts, coca ea contains certain types of alkaloids in it. These have the power to help you lose weight effectively. These alkaloids have a role in increasing lipolysis. Lipolysis is the process of mobilizing and breaking down of fatty acids in your body to produce energy. You can increase the natural ability of your body to burn fat by drinking this tea regularly. This way you can reduce body fat.
Relieves indigestion:
The alkaloids and vitamins in coca tea also help in treating indigestion. If you are suffering from gastrointestinal problems, just sip this herbal tea and you will get relief. People in South America use this tea as a natural remedy for treating various problems associated with indigestion.
Regulates blood glucose:
Coca leaves contain iron, riboflavin and calcium also. These nutrients along with Vitamin A help in regulating the glucose levels in the blood. This in turn helps in improving the metabolism and has a major role in lowering the risk of diabetes as well as obesity.
Side Effects of Coca Tea:
How safe is coca tea is what most people ask. Decocainized coca tea, or tea made of coca leaves without cocaine, is safe for most people. Take care to take it in normal amounts. The process of making coca tea is very much different from making of cocaine from coca leaves. If you are planning to have coca tea, you are to take certain precautions.
May cause miscarriages:
Pregnant women are advised not to consume coca tea as the cocaine present in the leaves may cause miscarriage or birth defects. It may also cause SIDS, or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Breast feeding mothers should also stay away from coca tea as it can affect the infants adversely.
May increase blood sugar levels:
Coca may lead to high blood pressure in some people. If you are prone to hypertension, make sure that you do not consume coca tea. You should also avoid consuming coca tea when there is the risk of having stroke or if you have a history of having stroke. The cocaine present in coca tea can raise the risk of dying from a broken blood vessel in the brain.
Worsens asthma:
Asthma patients are better off without consuming coca tea. This is because of the cocaine present in the leaves, which even in trace amounts can make things worse for asthma patients. When you suffer from asthma, it is better not to use coca in any form.
Worsens heart diseases:
Coca tea is not good for people having heart diseases. This is also because of the presence of cocaine in it. When people with heart diseases consume coca tea, it can make conditions even worse and may even cause complications.
How to Make Coca Tea?
If you get coca leaves, you can make coca tea on your own. Whole leaves are better as they contain plenty of active ingredients and these ingredients will infuse the tea without crushing or cutting the leaves. 1 to 2 cups of coca tea is enough for a day.
Coca Tea Recipe:
Ingredients needed:
- 1 teaspoon coca leaves
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon organic honey if you want your tea sweet
Preparation Method:
Step 1 – boil the water and then reduce heat and let it simmer.
Step 2 – Ad the coca leaves to the hot water.
Step 3 – Let the mixture brew for about 4 to 5 minutes. If you keep it longer, the tea will get stronger.
Step 4 – Strain the mixture and add honey.
So, you can see that coca tea has lots of health benefits, but it also have some side effects. Before you start consuming this beverage, keep it in mind. As you do with all herbal teas, it is better that you consult your doctor before you include it in your regular diet.
