The coca leaf comes from the Erythroxylum coca plant, native to the Andean region of South America. Traditionally, indigenous people have chewed the leaves for their stimulant effects, which help reduce fatigue and increase energy. The leaves contain alkaloids, including cocaine, but in their natural form, they are not as potent as the processed drug. Coca leaves are also used to make herbal teas and are sometimes included in traditional medicine. In some countries, they are legal and culturally significant, while in others, they are associated with illegal drug production. The leaves play a vital role in the economy and culture of several South American communities.