Coca Use and History in South America

The ancient practice of coca leaf chewing has been a time-honored and traditional one in the Andes of Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, Chile and Ecuador for centuries. Coca (Erythroxylum spp) has been attributed with many medicinal properties in its leaf form, including reduction of hunger, increased stamina and endurance, as an aid to digestion and mild stimulant, and a medicine for altitude sickness. It is also used in ceremonies and divination in the ancient religions of the Quechua and Aymara speaking peoples of the Andes, and is highly revered as a sacred plant with special powers.
Coca leaves have been chewed for at least 1400 years, and many historians think that the practice is even older than this. The evidence of this is the fact that mummies have been discovered with a supply of the leaves for use in the underworld. Other artifacts, including pottery with depictions of coca chewers, have also been found that seem to support this claim. The practice was current when the Incas came into power. Under their rule, its previously indiscriminate use became restricted to the upper classes and noblemen in the late 15th century. The Conquistadors at first forbade its use, and later changed their mind when they witnessed its positive effects on the stamina of workers, who worked harder and consumed less under its influence. Philip II noted it as essential to the well-being of Andean native workers, but wanted its use as a religious tool eradicated. Its employment in ceremonies and rituals, as well as the practice of its chewing for stamina and endurance, continues to this day.
Coca is chewed with a basifying substance, often made from burnt quinoa leaves, called an ilipta. This helps to release the alkaloids in the bundle of leaves, which is stuck into the cheek, called an acullico. It is kept in a chuspa, or woven pouch that is carried on the body.  
Coca use is widespread throughout the Andes; it is completely legal when used in leaf form in the countries of its origin. It can be chewed, made into a tea (called maté de coca) and is also used in candies and other products. Its many uses include: as an anesthetic to diminish the discomfort of rheumatism, and on wounds, fractures and sores. It is also used during childbirth to relieve pain, to stop bleeding, as a digestive aid, to heal ulcers, asthma and malaria, and as a longevity aid. The leaves are rich in vitamins and other nutrients.
The Coca Cola Company initially used coca in their beverage formula; this was later stopped as coca developed a scandalous reputation and the use of cocaine was declared illegal. They continue to use some flavoring extracts from the coca plant in their products, however. The use of coca is illegal in most western countries, no distinction being recognized between the use of the plant in its natural state and the harmful products that are refined from it. This is ironic, as the use of the leaves has a long tradition of benefits for the Andean people.