KHAT

Latin Name: Catha edulis

Alternate Names: Cafta, Flower Of Paradise

Family: CELASTRACEAE

Parts Used: Leaves, twigs.

Properties: Anaphrodisiac, Cerebral Stimulant, Respiratory Stimulant, Stimulant

Internal Uses: Fatigue, Malaria, Obesity

Internal Applications: Tea, Leaves (generally chewed).
Khat is used to enhance communication , increase alertness and decrease hunger. Users become more talkative and laugh easily.

Chemical Constituents: D-norpseudoephedrine, cathine, cathidine, cathinine.

Contraindications: Khat may cause headaches and elevate blood pressure. Large quantities are addictive and withdrawal may cause lethargy. Though most people will experience an amphetamine-like effect, for some people Khat may work as a depressant. Chronic use may lead to tremors in the nervous system and cause one to become more high-strung, constipated and susceptible to disease. Do not use during pregnancy. Use on occasion rather than regularly.

Comments: This tree is native to Kenya and Ethiopia. In Africa, some women will refuse to marry a Khat user.