Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Coca leaves (Erythroxylum coca) have a long history of traditional use among indigenous peoples of the Andes for a variety of ailments, including headache. The leaves are commonly chewed or brewed into tea (mate de coca) and are associated with relief of headache, fatigue, and symptoms of altitude sickness. The traditional rationale for this use is based on centuries of empirical observation rather than formal scientific study. The purported effects are attributed to the mild stimulant properties of coca alkaloids (including low levels of cocaine), which may cause vasoconstriction and mild analgesia, potentially helping with headache relief. However, there is a lack of robust scientific studies or clinical trials specifically evaluating the efficacy of coca leaves for headache treatment. The evidence for this use remains primarily anecdotal and rooted in ethnobotanical tradition. Regulatory and legal restrictions on coca research further limit the availability of rigorous scientific data. As such, the use of coca for headaches is justified by tradition, but scientific validation is minimal, and evidence quality is low (rated 2 out of 5).

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