1900 - 1750 BCE
Cultivation of coca bush in central Peru

The coca bush grew wild in the region that is now central Peru. Evidence suggests that around 1900 BCE coca was being cultivated in the area and used as a stimulant and vitamin-rich medicine. Coca use was woven into the social and spiritual fabric of ancient Central and South American life.

Source: Stolberg, V. B. (2011). The use of coca. J Ethn Subst Abuse, 10(2).

Drugs: Coca (cocaine)
Regions: Central America, South America, Peru
Topics: Cultural factors (social, religious, ritual), Medicinal use of drugs