Khat: Side Effects, Dangers, and Potential For Addiction

Khat, a plant originating from East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, is consumed for its stimulating effects. However, the active compounds in khat — cathinone, and cathine — can lead to addiction and various health risks.

Learn more about the side effects and risks of khat use, and call The Edge Treatment Center if you find yourself struggling with khat addiction.

Khat is a plant native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, often consumed by chewing its leaves and shoots for its stimulating effects. Users can also make khat into a paste, brew it as tea, inhale it, or use it as a powder. The active compounds in khat include cathinone, a Schedule I substance in the U.S. with high abuse potential, and cathine, a Schedule IV substance that is addictive. While khat is banned in the U.S., it remains legal in parts of East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Europe.

Khat is illegal to consume in many parts of the world, including here in the U.S. Classified as a Schedule I substance, it’s considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Possession, sale, or use of khat can lead to severe legal consequences.

Despite its legal status in some regions like East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, it remains a controlled substance in many countries due to its addictive properties and health risks. Understanding these legal implications is essential for those seeking to avoid the dangers associated with khat.

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It simply needs roughly 50 to 70 grams of Khat to get high. Within 1 hour of ingesting Khat stems and leaves, Khat users generally feel its sensations. These involve feelings of exhilaration, greater alertness, enhanced energy, and talkativeness. Numerous individuals consume Khat to improve their social connections and combat weariness.

Because cathinone and Cathine are stimulants, they tend to generate similar impacts as amphetamines. Eating Khat stems and leaves produce chemicals that are further immersed into the mouth and stomach lining membranes. Cathinone and Cathine stimulate brain receptors that produce serotonin, adrenaline, and norepinephrine hormones. These provide the drug's pleasurable and energizing effects.

Cathinone and Cathine can linger in your system for 3 hours. Your liver is responsible for metabolizing approximately 98% of the drug in your system. This is why so many people ingest multiple doses of Khat in a short period.

Khat's effects vary among individuals, so while some people might experience negative reactions, others may not. Here’s a comprehensive list of the potential side effects associated with khat:

• Reduced focus level

• Elevated energy

• Talkativeness

• Blurry vision

• Euphoria

• Attentiveness

• Dry mouth

• Increased blood pressure

• Shakiness

• Trouble sleeping

• Elevated heart rate

• Indigestion

• Arousal

• Drowsiness

• Trouble urinating

• Reduced appetite

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Numerous studies indicate that Khat can be extremely addictive, particularly when used often and over lengthy periods. Because abusers may continually seek the ecstatic and stimulating effects that Khat can deliver, it can lead to mental and physical dependency. This can lead to a variety of issues. Some khat users waste money they cannot afford and end up in a pool of loans and debts. Others see a drop in work efficiency, such as at the office or college, which impacts their overall earning capacity.

Khat users might discover that their sensitivity to Khat grows over time. This means they require higher doses to achieve the same results. Individuals may become dependent on medication for socializing or to boost their level of stamina. Furthermore, individuals who abruptly quit consuming Khat after consistent, long-term use may face unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Khat Withdrawal Symptoms:

• Low reaction rate

• Severe headaches

• Irritation and agitation

• Sleeplessness

• Reduced hunger and appetite

• Depressive episodes

• Fatigue

• Reduced zeal and motivation

Over time, frequent use of Khat can have detrimental impacts on both the body and mind. Eating stems and leaves can harm the teeth, mouth, and digestive system. Furthermore, chemical stimulants might produce irreversible effects on the body and brain. Long-term adverse impacts may include:

• Sleeplessness

• Anxiety

• Lack of nutrition

• Cardiac impairment

• Problems of the gastrointestinal tract

• Liver damage

• Male infertility

• Hemorrhoids

• Cancers of the oral cavity

• Discoloration of the teeth

• Psychotic attacks include delusionary things, paranoia, and hallucinations.

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While Khat can prove to be physically harmful, many individuals are more concerned about its psychological consequences. A study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) targeting Ethiopia reached the conclusion that depression in khat chewers is 25% more probable than in non-khat chewers. It also found that khat chewers experienced more anxiety. Another study finds a relationship between severe and long-term khat consumption and psychotic episodes and indications.

A possible explanation for Khat's link to psychological disorders is that the plant's compounds interact with brain receptors. Cathinone stimulates the production of dopamine and serotonin, two feel-good chemicals. When these chemicals are generated excessively, they might induce imbalances that impact cognitive abilities and emotional balance.

Treatment for khat addiction is similar to other forms of substance use. The process typically starts with an initial assessment and detoxification to flush any traces of khat from your system. You’ll then move onto either inpatient and/or outpatient treatment, and then aftercare, which is critical in ensuring long-term sobriety. Here’s what you can expect:

• Medically-Assisted Detox: The first step involves detoxing to eliminate khat from your body. This process, guided by medical professionals, helps manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse.

• Rehabilitation: Beyond detox, rehab addresses the root causes of addiction and develops coping strategies. Depending on your needs, options include inpatient, outpatient, or partial hospitalization programs.

• Aftercare: Continuous support after rehab is vital for long-term sobriety. Aftercare may include therapy, support groups, and healthy activities to maintain a substance-free life.

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Khat, a plant native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, is known for its stimulating effects when its leaves and shoots are chewed. However, the active compounds in khat, cathinone, and cathine, can lead to addiction and various health risks. Understanding the short-term and long-term side effects of khat is crucial for anyone affected by this substance. If you or someone you know is struggling with khat addiction, don't hesitate to seek help. Learn more about the side effects and addictive potential of khat - and if you or someone you know need addiction support, call The Edge Treatment Center today.

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If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, there is hope. Our team can guide you on your journey to recovery. Call us today.

CALL US: 844-620-3343

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