ABSTRACT
Caffeine is a naturally occurring alkaloid. It is found in leaves, seeds, and fruits, and acts as a central nervous system stimulant and pesticide, killing insects that feed on the plants while rewarding pollinators. Caffeine is probably best known as a stimulant in coffee, tea, and other drinks. Over 80% of American adults consume coffee on a daily basis in order to avoid drowsiness, stay alert, and increase focus.1 In coffee, caffeine is extracted from the seed of the coffee plant, Coffea arabica, which is found natively in the mountains of Ethiopia. Caffeine may also be extracted from the tea leaves of Camellia sinensis, in addition to antioxidant polyphenols.
