Khat
Nicknames:
Chat, Cathinone and Cathine, Quat, Qat, Ghat, Quaadka
What does it look like?
Khat is a green leafed plant that has been used for its stimulant properties for centuries across parts of Africa and Arabia.
How it is used:
Chewed to a pulp (with a chewing session lasting as long as 3-5 hours) and spat out, the chewing session usually fulfils an important social function similar to the use of caffeine and alcohol in Europe. Khat can also be brewed into a 'tea', with some dried preparation of the drug being available in the UK.
The highs:
As the shrub contains natural stimulant properties, the effects are often described as being somewhere between caffeine and amphetamine. It makes users feel alert and relaxed, and makes them more talkative, although their appetite is reduced.
The lows:
The majority of people who use khat do not experience serious problems, however psychological problems and dependence can occur. A minority of people who use regularly - most days of the week - may feel anxious and irritable, tired and depressed after using the drug, and they may experience psychological problems. Khat chewing can also lead to a sore mouth that may put the user at risk of infections. There is some evidence to say that excessive Khat chewing may increase the risk of heart disease and cancer in the mouth.
The law:
In the UK, the khat plant is not classified as a controlled substance under the Drugs Act, so no penalties apply for use or trade. However, it is a controlled drug in other countries including the Republic of Ireland, Canada, USA, Norway and Sweden, so UK residents who travel to these countries with Khat would be breaking the law. (See drugs abroad for more information).
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