The coca plant is a small shrub native to the Andean region of South America. It typically grows between 1 to 3 meters tall and has glossy green leaves. The leaves contain alkaloids, which can be processed to produce cocaine, a powerful stimulant.
Coca leaves have been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for their stimulating effects and nutritional benefits. They are often chewed or brewed into tea to help with altitude sickness and fatigue. The cultivation of the coca plant is legal in some countries for traditional uses, but illegal in others due to its association with drug production.