Dr. John Pemberton invented this syrup in 1886 which was purchased by Asa Candler in the 1890s. Tasters said it was delicious when combined with carbonated water. Although denied by its namesake company, historical evidence suggests the recipe for what was then sold as a tonic combined coca leaf extract with the Kola nut.  An early 20th century article in Life Science magazine detailed Asa Candler's diligence as a pharmacist to remove the illegal drug from the recipe. However, scientists were unable to effectively remove all trace psychoactive elements until 1929.