Khat
The effects, the risks, the law.
Slang:
Quat, qat, qaadka, chat.
Background:
This leafy green shrub contains natural stimulant properties. It has been chewed for many centuries in parts of East Africa and the Middle East, but use has begun to spread into Europe.
In the UK, khat is occasionally imported in twig-like bunches for sale in some greengrocers and specialist health food shops. The leaves have a withered appearance and lose much of their potency just a few days after being picked.
The effects:
- Increased alertness, confidence and concentration;
- Takes the edge off appetite.
The risks:
- Regular use has been linked to increased anxiety and insomnia;
- There is some argument as to whether khat use can leave people feeling irritable and prone to aggression;
- Psychological dependency can develop when the drug is used on a regular basis;
- Long term use is associated with increased incidence of oral cancer.
The law:
In the UK, the khat plant is not classified as a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act, so no penalties apply for use or trade.
If you are planning to take this drug:
- Tends to discolour teeth;
- Saliva is stimulated by chewing khat, which means users feel the need to spit a lot during use;
- Avoid mixing with other drugs during or after a khat chewing session, as the combined effects can be unpredictable and even dangerous.
