228: Who Put the Coca in Coca-Cola?!

 Peter Pan and I explore the fascinating and often misunderstood story of the coca plant—from its ancient Indigenous roots to its controversial connection with Coca-Cola. Peter breaks down the history of coca-infused tonics, the creation of Coca-Cola, the company’s unique access to imported coca leaves, and the ongoing questions surrounding the plant’s commercialization and criminalization. The conversation also dives into the four major cultivated varieties of coca, traditional preparation methods such as yipta, cal, poporo, and mambé, and the cultural role coca continues to play across Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, and the Amazon. Together, they discuss coca as a nutritious plant medicine, its similarities to tea, the impact of colonial drug policies, and modern efforts to protect Indigenous traditions and reconsider coca’s international legal status. 

I got a new phone number to text in with any questions, comments, or photos!

727-477-5974