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Khat

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Substance

Khat refers to the fresh parts of the khat shrub (Catha edulis). This shrub belongs to the spindle tree family and is mainly cultivated in Yemen and Africa. Khat is also known as "Abyssinian tea".

group

Stimulants

Substance groups

Forms of appearance

Fresh plant parts (stems, leaves, and flower buds), rarely freeze-dried leaves or alcoholic tinctures. Khat should be consumed fresh after harvesting, as the main active ingredient, cathine, degrades into a less potent substance within a few days. Therefore, dried khat leaves have a lower concentration of active ingredients.

Consumption patterns

 Fresh plant parts (stems, leaves, and flower buds) are moistened with saliva in the mouth and chewed; the resulting juice is swallowed. Freeze-dried leaves are used to make tea or are smoked; tinctures are drunk.

dosage

100 – 200 g fresh khat leaves

Effect

Khat is bitter and has a pungent taste. Its consumption leads to the release of dopamine and norepinephrine; the effects are comparable to those of amphetamine, but much less pronounced. Consumption results in increased blood pressure, euphoria, heightened alertness, talkativeness, and suppression of the need for sleep and appetite.

Onset of action

chewed after approx. 60-90 minutes, smoked after a few minutes

Duration of effect

up to 7 hours.

Aftereffects

up to 3 hours.

Risks and side effects

Dilated pupils, palpitations, facial flushing, elevated body temperature, sweating, dehydration, and restlessness are common symptoms. After the intoxication wears off, depression, irritability, loss of appetite, and sleep disturbances may occur. Additionally, stomach cramps, constipation, and urinary retention can develop. 

Long-term risks

Regular consumption can lead to physical deficiencies, chronic sleep disorders, and addiction with psychological symptoms. Common side effects include inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, esophagus, and stomach, chronic bloating, and constipation. There is also an increased risk of oral cancer.

Safer Use

  • Only consume visually perfect khat (no grey or rotten plant parts).

  • Wash plant parts with water before consumption.

  • The cathine content of the leaves varies considerably and depends on the age of the shoots and the duration of storage after harvesting. Therefore, dose carefully! Due to the delayed onset and long duration of action, you should not redose and only increase the dose the next time you consume it.

  • Drink enough liquid (water) to chew.

  • Do not swallow khat plant parts, spit them out.

  • Pay attention to oral hygiene; always brush your teeth after consumption.

  • Simultaneous tobacco use leads to an increased effect and raises the risk of oral cancer.

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