Khat

The scientific name of khat is Catha edulis, and it is a plant of the Celastraceae family. Also known as Arab tea, khat is native to East Africa and Yemen. Khat contains stimulant substances similar to amphetamines, such as cathinone and caffeine.

Where is khat grown?

Qat is mainly grown in the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, specifically in the following countries:

Horn of Africa:

Ethiopia: The largest producer of khat, especially in the eastern and central regions.

Somalia: Agriculture is widespread, especially in the southern and central regions.

Kenya: It is mainly grown in the northern and eastern regions.

Djibouti: Smaller production, mostly in southern and central parts.

The Arabian Peninsula:

Yemen: An important cultural tradition and widespread agriculture, especially in the northern mountainous regions.

Saudi Arabia: It is mainly grown in the southwestern region near the border with Yemen.

Oman: Smaller production in the southern coastal areas.

In addition, there is some khat cultivation in:

EastAfrica: Tanzania and Uganda have small production.

South Africa: Limited cultivation, mostly for personal use.

The specific regions within these countries where khat is grown vary depending on factors such as climate, soil conditions, and cultural traditions.

It is important to note that khat is considered a controlled substance in many countries, including the United States, Canada and most of Europe, due to its addictive potential and potential negative health effects.

Here are some additional facts about khat cultivation:

Khat requires a tropical or subtropical climate with an average daily temperature of 20 °C (68 °F) or higher.

Khat trees grow quickly and can reach 10 meters (33 feet) in height.

Khat leaves are harvested several times a day and chewed or drunk as a beverage.

Khat is believed to give the user a feeling of energy, vitality and activity, and it may also help improve concentration and memory.

Khat composition:

Khat leaves contain many chemical compounds, including:

Cathine: It is an alkaloid that has stimulant effects similar to amphetamines.

Norpsidoephedrine: This is another compound that has stimulant effects.

Caffeine: It is a common stimulant found in coffee and tea.

Theophylline: This is another stimulant compound found in coffee and tea.

The levels of these chemical compounds in khat leaves vary depending on the age of the plant and growing conditions. In general, younger, more mature khat leaves are richer in caffeine and theophylline, while older leaves contain higher levels of cathinone and norpsidoephedrine.

Cathinone and norpsidoephedrine are believed to be responsible for the stimulant effects of khat. Cathinone affects the central nervous system by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is associated with alertness and motivation. Norpsidoephedrine also affects the central nervous system and is thought to enhance the effects of cathinone.

Types of khat:

Khat is classified into two main types based on the color of its leaves:

Green Qat: It is the most common type, and is characterized by its dark green leaves.

Red khat: It is less common, and is characterized by its red or pink leaves.

Green khat is believed to contain higher levels of cathinone and norpsidoephedrine, making it more stimulating. While red khat is believed to contain higher levels of caffeine and theophylline, making it more stimulating.

In addition to the two main types, there are also many different varieties of khat, which differ in their characteristics and taste. Some of the more common varieties are known as:

Al-Hamdani: It is a popular strain in Yemen, and is distinguished by its long and broad leaves.

Al-Hattabi: It is another popular breed in Yemen, and is characterized by its small and dense leaves.

Al-Matari: It is a strain grown in the mountainous regions of Yemen, and is distinguished by its aromatic leaves.

There are also many types, for example (Arhabi, Nimri, Saadi, Shami, Mawiya, and Ghalli).

The type of khat is determined by a variety of factors, including the region in which the plant is grown, growing conditions, and the age of the plant.

The largest producer of khat:

The largest producer of khat is Ethiopia, where about 70% of the world's khat is grown. Followed by Somalia, Kenya and Djibouti.

Qat is primarily grown in the mountainous regions of these countries, where it requires a tropical or subtropical climate with an average daily temperature of 20 °C (68 °F) or higher.

Benefits of khat:

Improving concentration and memory: Khat is believed to improve concentration and memory by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain.

Increased energy and vitality: Khat contains stimulant compounds, such as cathinone and caffeine, which can increase energy levels and vitality.

Improving mood: It is believed that khat can help improve mood by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain.

Enhancing athletic performance: It is believed that khat can help enhance athletic performance by increasing energy levels, strength, and endurance.

Uses of khat:

Khat is used for various purposes, including:

Entertainment: Khat is commonly used at social events, chewed or drunk as a beverage. Khat is believed to give the user a feeling of energy, vitality and activity, and it may also help improve concentration and memory.

Cultural Tradition: Khat is an important part of culture in many countries, including Yemen and Ethiopia. It is used at religious and social occasions, and may be associated with feelings of welcome and hospitality.

Traditional Medicine: Khat is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including:

Migraines

arthritis

Heart disease

Hypertension

Stomach disorders

However, there is no scientific evidence to support these medical uses.

Economy: Qat is an important source of income for many countries, as it is exported to many countries around the world.

Harmful effects of khat:

Khat use can lead to many side effects, including:

Anxiety and insomnia: Khat can increase anxiety and insomnia, which may lead to problems with sleep and concentration.

Dizziness and headache: Khat can lead to dizziness and headache, especially when used for the first time or when used in large quantities.

Loss of appetite: Khat can lead to loss of appetite, which may lead to malnutrition.

Sleep disorders: Khat can make it difficult to sleep, which may lead to fatigue and exhaustion.

Heart problems: Khat can cause high blood pressure and heart rate, which may increase the risk of heart disease.

Liver problems: Khat can cause liver damage, which may lead to liver failure.

Kidney problems: Khat can damage the kidneys, which may lead to kidney failure.

Addiction: Khat can lead to addiction, which may lead to serious health problems, such as:

Heart disease: Khat addiction can increase the risk of heart disease, such as atherosclerosis and heart attacks.

Oral cancer: Khat addiction can increase the risk of oral cancer, especially in the tongue and gums.

Schizophrenia: Khat addiction can increase the risk of developing schizophrenia, a serious mental disorder that can cause hallucinations, hallucinations, and problems with thinking and behavior.

Social and economic impacts:

In addition to health effects, khat use can also lead to several social and economic impacts, including:

Reduced productivity: Khat use can lead to decreased productivity at work and school, which may lead to economic losses.

Family problems: Khat use can lead to problems in family relationships, which may lead to divorce and family conflicts.

Legal problems: Khat use can lead to legal problems, such as arrest and prosecution.

Recommendations:

Based on available evidence, it is recommended to avoid khat use due to side effects and potential health risks.