Catha Edulis

Abstract

HEALTHLIT Abstract: Angiospermae Dicotyledonae Celastraceae Catha edulis Common names: Afrikaans: boesmanstee; English: bushman's tea; Arabic: khat Botanical description: a shrub or small tree from two to five metres in height with pale grey smooth bark which becomes rough and brown with age. The firm but drooping leaves are bright green and shiny above but paler below with a toothed margin. Small white flowers, in dense clusters, are borne in early winter and are followed by small dry capsules. Plant parts used: fresh leaves, known as khat, are chewed. Medicinal uses: leaf chewing probably originated in Ethiopia. The leaves have stimulating and euphoric effects but are also used for coughs, asthma and other chest complaints. This plant may cause dependency and its production, marketing and use is generally prohibited. Preparation and dosage: in north-eastern Africa leaves are chewed within 24 hours of harvesting but in South Africa leaf and twig infusions are generally used. Active ingredients: phenethylamines, including cathinone, are found in fresh leaves and are responsible for the stimulant effects. Pharmacological effects: cathinone has similar effects to ephedrine and amphetamine and reduces fatigue, increases mental power and communication skills but also causes hypertension. Prolonged use may cause personality problems and aggression. Distribution: occurs from the Eastern Cape to Mpumalanga and the Northern Province and is widely distributed in East Africa, the horn of Africa, Ethiopia and South Yemen