Summary
Khat's potency degrades rapidly after harvesting; fresh leaves (within 24-48 hours) contain the highest cathinone content, while older leaves primarily contain the weaker cathine. Legal status varies dramatically worldwide: it is Schedule I in the United States, Class C in the UK, and illegal in most of Europe and Canada, but remains legal and culturally significant in Yemen, Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti. Chronic use is associated with cardiovascular problems, oral health issues, and gastrointestinal complications. Individuals with heart conditions, hypertension, or psychiatric disorders should avoid use. The traditional chewing method involves holding the material in the cheek for extended periods during 3-4 hour sessions.
Dose Information
Light
Common
Strong
Heavy
Onset, Duration & After-effects
| ROA | Onset | Comeup | Peak | Offset | After Effects | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral (Chewed) | 15-30 min | 30-60 min | 2-3 hrs | 1-2 hrs | 60-0 min | 1800-0 min |
Tolerance
Build-up
develops rapidly, often within a single session; compulsive redosing common
Reset
a few days for acute tolerance
Effects
Positive
- Increased Energy and Alertness
- Stimulation
- Physical Euphoria
Negative
- Insomnia
- Increased heart rate
- Temperature Regulation Suppression
- Nausea
- Decreased Appetite
- Sedation
- Spontaneous Bodily Sensations
Positive
- Mild Euphoria
- Enhanced Talkativeness and Sociability
- Mental Clarity and Focus
- Increased Confidence
- Cognitive Euphoria
- Analysis Enhancement
Negative
- Irritability
- Anxiety and Restlessness
- Paranoia or Psychosis
- Motor Control Loss
Positive
- Increased Music Appreciation
- Colour Enhancement
- Pattern Recognition Enhancement
- Tracers
- Brightened colour
Negative
- Light sensitivity
- Perception of Bodily Heaviness
- Drifting
- Internal Hallucinations
- External Hallucinations