Caffeine and Its Influence on Society

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What is Caffeine, where is it found, what are its roots, how does it affect the individual both psychologically and physiologically and how does this influence and relate to sociology? Pure caffeine is a bitter alkaloid however; caffeine is not usually consumed in this form. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant and is found naturally in many plants some of which are used to make coffee tea and chocolate. The most commonly used product that contains caffeine is coffee which contains xanthine. Legend has it that Arabian goats were the first to experience the effects of coffee, and when the goat herder noticed that the goats had a lot of energy he realized that the berries from the coffee shrubs could have some beneficial effects. Coffee had early uses as a cure all remedy to treat ailments like stomach problems and measles. It was also believed that excessive use caused men to have a decreased sexual drive. Tea is another caffeine product which contains theophylline is said to be discovered in China by the founder of Zen Buddhism. Tea comes from the leaves of tea trees also known as Camellia sinensis and was initially used for medicinal purposes. Theophylline helps to open up the airways and is helpful for treating asthma and other breathing disorders. The theophylline is extracted and put into medications to treat these disorders. Chocolate, which contains the xanthine known as theobromine comes from the cacao bean and is said to have originated in Mexico and was discovered by the Aztecs and the Mayans. Chocolate contains less caffeine than tea or coffee, but nonetheless still contains caffeine . Its was first used as a drink and a food for the wealthy. Chocolate was very bitter before people discovered that when they add sugar to it they end up with a delicious treat. Caffeine is also added to many products such as over the counter

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