Coca tea is a traditional Andean drink that has been used for centuries by communities in high altitude areas to combat the effects of altitude sickness. This infusion made with coca leaves helps visitors adapt to the altitude.
If you stay at a hotel in Cusco, you will probably be offered a delicious mate de coca to help you start enjoying the local experience. In this article, you will discover the benefits of this infusion and how it will help you adapt naturally to the altitude.
What is mate de coca and how does it help you at altitude?
Mate de coca is an infusion made with the leaves of the coca plant (Erythroxylum coca), which grows in the regions of the Andes. This drink has a natural alkaloid content that helps to alleviate the effects of altitude sickness, a condition that affects many people when they are at high altitudes.
Coca tea is highly valued in high mountain areas because it contains properties that improve blood circulation, reduce fatigue and gently stimulate the nervous system, making it a very useful tool for travelers who are not used to high altitudes. In addition, coca tea has a pleasant taste that makes it a comforting drink and popular with locals and tourists alike.
5 Benefits of coca tea for travelers
Coca tea is not only a delicious drink, but it also offers several benefits for those traveling to high altitude places. Here are the top five benefits that will help you better adapt to your environment and enjoy your experience at high altitude:
1. Relief from altitude sickness symptoms
One of the main benefits of mate de coca is that it helps to relieve the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as dizziness, headaches, nausea and fatigue. Coca has properties that stimulate blood circulation and improve oxygenation in the body, which helps to reduce the effects of soroche (altitude sickness) and facilitates acclimatization.
2. Increased energy and vitality
The coca leaf contains natural alkaloids like cocaine in its unprocessed form, which have mild stimulating effects. By consuming mate de coca, one can experience an increase in energy and vitality, which is ideal for those who need to stay active during their mountain activities, such as trekking or hiking.
3. Improves digestion at high altitudes
At high altitudes, digestion can slow down due to the lack of oxygen. Coca tea is known for its digestive properties and is traditionally used to relieve stomach problems and help improve the digestive process. This is especially useful for travelers who have difficulty digesting food at high altitudes.
4. Prevention of muscle cramps
Mate de coca is also beneficial in preventing muscle cramps, which are common during long walks in the mountains. By improving blood circulation and keeping the body hydrated, mate de coca helps to avoid muscle stiffness and cramps, allowing the body to feel more relaxed and energetic.
5. Calming effect and stress reduction
Drinking mate de coca has a calming effect on the body, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Mate de coca acts as a natural relaxant that allows you to maintain a state of well-being and calm, which is essential for enjoying activities in the mountains.
How to prepare mate de coca?
Preparing mate de coca is a simple process that does not require complicated ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide so that you can enjoy this drink properly:
- Gather the ingredients: You will need dried coca leaves (these can be bought in local markets or specialised shops), hot water and a container (such as a cup or glass).
- Boil the water: Heat the water until it is almost boiling, but do not let it boil.
- Place the coca leaves: Place a tablespoon of dried coca leaves in the bottom of your cup or glass.
- Add the hot water: Pour the hot water over the coca leaves, making sure they are completely submerged.
- Leave to stand: Leave the infusion to stand for 5 to 10 minutes so that the properties of the coca are released into the water.
- Enjoy: Once the coca tea has stood, it’s ready to enjoy! You can drink it on its own or add some sugar or lemon to taste.
How much coca tea is recommended to consume?
Mate de coca is a drink that should be consumed in moderation, especially for travelers who are not used to it. Although it is not a dangerous drink, it is recommended not to exceed more than three cups a day. This will allow you to enjoy its benefits without side effects.
If you are staying at a hotel in Urubamba, Cusco, you will probably be offered this infusion to help you adapt to the altitude in a natural way.
It is important to remember that, although coca tea has stimulating properties, it should not be consumed to excess, as it can cause discomfort such as nervousness or insomnia. It is always best to consume it responsibly, especially if you have never tried the drink before.
Myths and realities about coca tea
Over the years, several myths have circulated about coca tea, many of which have generated confusion. Below, we clarify some of the most important realities:
- Myth: Coca tea is addictive.
- Reality: Mate de coca is not addictive. Although the coca leaf contains an alkaloid that in other contexts can be addictive, the amount in mate de coca is minimal and does not generate dependence.
- Myth: Mate de coca is illegal in many countries.
- Reality: Although the coca leaf is restricted in some countries, coca tea made from dried leaves is legal in many countries, including Peru, where it is commonly consumed as a traditional drink.
- Myth: Coca tea has the same effects as cocaine.
- Reality: Coca tea has a low alkaloid content and does not produce the narcotic effects of cocaine. In its natural form, coca is not harmful and has only a mild, stimulating effect.
Mate de coca is an ancient drink that is perfect for relieving altitude sickness and improving digestion. At Andean Wings Valley, you can enjoy this traditional drink at your hotel in the Sacred Valley and make your experience even more special.