Cocaine is derived from which plant?

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that is derived from the leaves of the coca plant, which is primarily cultivated in South America. The coca plant, scientifically known as Erythroxylum coca, has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples in the Andes for its stimulating effects, which include increased energy and reduced fatigue. The leaves of this plant can be processed to extract cocaine, a substance that has significant effects on the central nervous system.

The other options presented refer to different plants that are associated with various substances. Psyllium is a plant known for its fiber content and is commonly used as a laxative, while the marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa, is known for its psychoactive properties due to compounds like THC. The opium poppy is the source of opiates such as morphine and codeine. Each of these plants is significant in its own right but does not contribute to the production of cocaine. Therefore, identifying the coca plant as the source of cocaine is essential to understanding the origins of this substance.