KHAT
Khat (or Cat) is a plant grown mainly in East Africa and Southwest Arabia. It has intoxicating effects when the leaves and bark are chewed. Main areas of commercial cultivation have traditionally been in Yemen, Ethiopia and Kenya. The first instance of illegal manufacture in the United States is believed to have occurred in the late 1980's or early 1990's. In Sweden certain ethnic minorities have been known to abuse the drug.
Low dosage produces euphoria, feelings of well- being and
power. High dosage produces disorientation and hallucinations.
Intoxication usually lasts four hours.
Daily consumption of 250-400 grammes is common in the countries of origin.
Physical effects of Khat:
- gastro-intestinal problems
- parasites
- oral cavity problems
- liver problems
- cardio-vascular problems
- respiratory problems
- psychic effects
- endocrine aspects
Damaging effects of Khat
- delusional states (psychoses)
- irritability
- depression
- loss of weight
- liver damage
- sexual disturbance
- sleeping disorders
- foetal damage
- respiratory problems
- loss of weight
SUMMARY
Though systematic epidemiological studies on the negative effects of Khat on health are still limited in their scope and depth, available information on general, clinical and descriptive observation, points to a wide range of medical complications. Apart from the psychic dependence and general adverse psychological reactions such as morning irritability, reduced vitality and late arrival at work, there are also reports of true psychiatric disturbance, episodes of aggressive behaviour and psychotic excitation
