Chewing it leads to euphoria, hyperactivity

QAT or Khat (Catha edulisis) is a flowering plant native to tropical East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Qat contains the alkaloid called cathinone, an amphetamine-like stimulant which is said to cause excitement, loss of appetite and euphoria.

In 1980, the World Health Organisation classified qat as a drug of abuse which can produce mild to moderate psychological dependence. The plant has been targeted by anti-drug organisations like the Drug Enforcement Administration of the United States.

It is a controlled or illegal substance in many countries, but is legal for sale and production in many others.

Qat appears to have originated in East Africa. It is now available in Arabia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, the Congo, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa.

Qat’s fresh leaves and tops are chewed or, less frequently, dried and consumed as tea, to achieve a state of euphoria and stimulation. It also has anorectic side-effects.

The plant is also available in England, Wales, Rome, Amsterdam, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the US.

Individuals become very talkative under the influence of the drug and may appear to be unrealistic and emotionally unstable. Qat can also induce manic behaviour, hyperactivity and constipation.

Withdrawal symptoms that may follow occasional use include mild depression and irritability. Withdrawal symptoms that may follow prolonged qat use include lethargy, mild depression, nightmares and slight tremors.

It is estimated that several million people are frequent users of qat. Many of the users originate from countries between Sudan and Madagascar and in the southwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula, especially Yemen.

Promoted as a “legal high” in the United Kingdom, mephedrone is known by its street names such as “meph”, “drone”, “M-Cat”, “meow meow” and “bubbles”.