khat

khat
Name	Khat
Other names	Qat, chat, miraa
Type	Stimulant
Legal status	Varies by country

khat. Khat is a flowering evergreen shrub native to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, whose fresh leaves and shoots are chewed for their stimulant effects. The practice of khat use is deeply embedded in the social and cultural traditions of countries like Ethiopia, Somalia, and Yemen. The primary active compounds are cathinone and cathine, which are amphetamine-like substances that affect the central nervous system. Its legal status is highly variable, being prohibited in many Western nations while remaining legal and culturally significant in its regions of origin.

Description and botany

The khat plant is scientifically classified as Catha edulis, a member of the Celastraceae family. It typically grows as a large shrub or small tree, reaching heights of up to 25 meters in ideal conditions, though it is often cultivated as a bush for easier harvesting. The plant features opposite, serrated leaves that are glossy and bright green when fresh, which is the preferred state for consumption. The flowers are small and white, producing a three-lobed capsule fruit containing winged seeds. Botanically, it is related to other plants in the Celastrales order and is sometimes confused with species like Catha spinosa.

Cultivation and distribution

Khat cultivation is a major agricultural activity in the highlands of East Africa, particularly in Ethiopia around the city of Harar, in Kenya within the Meru County region, and extensively in Yemen. The plant thrives in altitudes between 1,500 and 2,500 meters with well-drained soil and requires significant rainfall or irrigation. Major distribution networks, often involving rapid transport by land rover or small aircraft from centers like Nairobi, ensure the leaves reach markets while still fresh, as potency degrades quickly after harvesting. The trade is a critical component of the local economy in areas such as the Nyambene Hills.

Chemical composition and pharmacology

The psychoactive effects are primarily due to the phenylalkylamine alkaloids cathinone and, to a lesser extent, cathine (norpseudoephedrine). Cathinone is chemically similar to amphetamine and methamphetamine, acting as a monoamine releasing agent that increases levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain. Fresh leaves contain the highest concentration of cathinone, which converts over time to the less potent cathine. Other compounds present include tannins, flavonoids, and various terpenoids. The pharmacology is studied in relation to other stimulants and substances like mephedrone.

Effects and health impacts

Short-term effects include euphoria, increased alertness, talkativeness, and suppressed appetite, but can also lead to tachycardia, hypertension, insomnia, and anxiety. Chronic use is associated with significant health risks such as gastrointestinal disorders, periodontal disease, and potential for cardiomyopathy. Psychological dependence and a psychotic disorder resembling amphetamine psychosis can occur with heavy use. The World Health Organization has noted its public health impact, and treatment may involve services like those provided by the National Health Service.

Legal status and regulation

The legal status of khat varies dramatically across jurisdictions, reflecting differing cultural and public health perspectives. It is a controlled substance under the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs in many countries, including the United Kingdom following a ban in 2014, the United States where it is classified as a Schedule I drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and across the European Union. Conversely, it remains legal and unregulated in its core regions like Somaliland, Djibouti, and much of Yemen. Enforcement often involves agencies like UK Border Force and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Cultural and social aspects

Khat chewing is a deeply ingrained social ritual, particularly among men in Somali culture, Yemeni society, and parts of Ethiopia. Sessions, known as majlis, can last for hours and serve as forums for discussion, business, and community bonding. Its use is often associated with traditional practices and ceremonies, but also linked to socioeconomic issues, as significant household income can be spent on it. The practice has been referenced in historical accounts by figures like Richard Francis Burton and continues to be a subject of study for anthropologists and sociologists examining the Horn of Africa.

Category:Stimulants Category:Flora of Africa Category:Drugs by country