Drugs & Alcohol Facts
Khat
Also known as: quat, qat, qaadka, chat, Catha edulis.
Looks like: A leaf.
How it is taken: Chewed over a number of hours.
The effects: Can make people feel more alert and talkative. May suppress the appetite. Although it's a stimulant, many users report a feeling of calm if it's chewed over a few hours.
Downside: High usage may cause insomnia, heart problems. Can produce feelings of anxiety and aggression. May make pre-existing mental health problems worse.
Class: N/A
The Law: Khat is currently not an illegal drug in the UK. It can be used or traded without penalty. However, it is illegal in many other countries such as the U.S.A.
