Coca: High Altitude Remedy of the Ancient Incas

Abstract

The use of coca leaf for medicinal purposes is a centuries-old tradition of the native peoples of South America. Coca products are thought by many laypersons to provide risk-free benefits to users participating in strenuous activities at high altitude. Physiologic studies of coca have increased understanding of its possible mechanism of action as well as its potential impact on high altitude activities. This present work explores the role of coca throughout the history of the Andean peoples and explores whether this ancient remedy has a place in modern medicine. A focused summary of research articles with particular relevance to the field of wilderness medicine is also included to better provide the reader with lessons not only from history but also from another culture.

Erythroxylum in Focus: An Interdisciplinary Review of an Overlooked Genus

“…Overall, coca’s physical performance effects are relatively mild, but potentially clinically significant. Biondich and Joslin (2015) [98] and Biondich and Joslin (2016) [79] indicated that coca’s impact on glucose availability appears to be coca’s most scientifically-validated metabolic effect [93]. They reported the value of using coca in reducing the symptoms of altitude sickness.…”

Travel medicine, coca and cocaine: demystifying and rehabilitating Erythroxylum – a comprehensive review

“…Because of the focus on cocaine, there has been little research into the properties of the leaf’s other alkaloids. This is disappointing as it is highly likely that the substances act synergistically to produce the effect of coca [35], and more research on the entire leaf is needed [36].…”

“…‘Cocaine is a tropane alkaloid that biologically acts as a serotonin-norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor’ [36, p.568]. When the potential for addiction was understood, cocaine became illegal in the US in 1914 and its use declined.…”

The Application of Oligonucleotide Templated Chemical Reactions to DNA Aptamers

“…Reported benefits include stimulation and rejuvenation, as well as the alleviation of hunger and thirst. 215 It is also commonly used by travelers to South America for the relief of altitude sickness, especially in and around Machu Picchu. 213,215 Cocaine was first isolated by Niemann in 1855, and popularized by Sigmund Freud for its stimulant and euphoric effects in 1884.…”

“…215 It is also commonly used by travelers to South America for the relief of altitude sickness, especially in and around Machu Picchu. 213,215 Cocaine was first isolated by Niemann in 1855, and popularized by Sigmund Freud for its stimulant and euphoric effects in 1884. 213 Cocaine has many pharmacological roles, including its role as a local anesthetic which was discovered by Carl Koller in 1884.…”