Khat is a stimulant drug derived from the leaves of the Catha edulis shrub. Native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, its use has been a long-standing cultural tradition for centuries. The plant contains psychoactive compounds that produce stimulating effects on the central nervous system.
The Khat Plant and Its Use
The Catha edulis plant is an evergreen shrub or slender tree that can reach up to 25 meters in height. It features oval leaves and small white flowers. Young stems often appear reddish.
The primary method of consumption involves chewing the fresh leaves and young shoots. Users hold the chewed plant material, known as a quid, in their cheek, intermittently chewing it to release the active compounds into their saliva. The juices are then swallowed, allowing for absorption.
Freshness is important because the potency of the leaves diminishes quickly after harvesting. The plant’s main active stimulants are cathinone and cathine. Cathinone is the more potent compound and is chemically similar to amphetamine.
Psychoactive and Physical Effects
Chewing khat produces short-term psychoactive and physical effects that begin within an hour and can last for several hours. Users often seek euphoria, increased energy, and heightened alertness. Many report becoming more talkative and experiencing a suppressed appetite.
Undesirable physical and psychological responses include an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Individuals may also experience anxiety, irritability, and insomnia, making it difficult to sleep after a session. After the effects subside, users feel depleted, with low mood and sluggishness.
Health Consequences and Addiction
Chronic use of khat can lead to long-term health problems. Cardiovascular issues are common, including sustained high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and a heightened risk of heart attack. Dental problems include gum disease, tooth decay, and oral mucosal ulcers due to the chewing habit.
Gastrointestinal complications include constipation, gastritis, and ulcers. Psychologically, prolonged use is associated with psychosis, paranoia, and depression. While once believed to be non-addictive, chronic use can lead to psychological dependence. Individuals who attempt to stop using khat experience withdrawal symptoms, including depression, fatigue, insomnia, and nightmares.
Legal Status and Regulation
The legal status of khat varies significantly across different countries. In the United States, cathinone, the primary psychoactive component of khat, is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use in the U.S., making its import, possession, and sale illegal. Cathine, another active compound in khat, is a Schedule IV controlled substance.
Conversely, in many countries where khat use is culturally ingrained, such as Yemen, Somalia, and Ethiopia, its production, sale, and consumption are legal. However, it is illegal in European countries like the United Kingdom and Germany, and also in Canada, reflecting a global divergence in its regulation.