What Is Cocaine?

Cocaine - cocaine is produced from the leaves of the coca plant. Because the coca leaves are bulky, the first stage of processing sometimes, but not always, occurs after the leaves are dried and takes place near the growing area. The leaves are usually steeped in petrol or kerosene to produce a sloppy mixture that is treated with sulphuric acid, lime, potassium permanganate. When dried, the mixture forms a crude paste that is normally moved elsewhere for more sophisticated refining into cocaine hydrochloride, the white powder. Cocaine base is dissolved in a solvent such as ethyl acetate, acetone, or ether and then heated in a hot water bath called a “bańo maria.” Another solvent such as methyl ethyl ketone is added to the boiling liquid along