In 1860, German chemistry PhD Albert Niemann isolated cocaine from coca leaves; the tongue-numbness he noted led to the first local anesthesia 24 years later

A simple observation of numbness from coca leaves led to a medical revolution. Scientists isolated cocaine, revealing its power to block pain locally. This breakthrough transformed surgery and dentistry, allowing patients to remain conscious during procedures. Though cocaine was later replaced by safer alternatives, its discovery established the vital principle of targeted pain control, a cornerstone of modern medicine.

Raccontata daeconomictimes.indiatimes.com