Introduction #

Khat, a plant native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, has been used for centuries for its stimulating effects. Chewing Khat leaves is common in certain cultures, providing users with euphoria, increased energy, and alertness. However, what starts as a seemingly harmless habit can quickly turn into a dangerous cycle of abuse and addiction. The active stimulant in Khat, cathinone, is a powerful substance that can lead to both physical and psychological dependence.

While the effects of Khat may feel uplifting in the short term, the long-term consequences can be severe. Regular Khat use can damage both mental and physical health, leading to issues like anxiety, heart problems, and gastrointestinal disorders. Understanding the risks and how easily Khat can become addictive is crucial for anyone using the plant or concerned about its growing influence worldwide.

Key Takeaways #

• Khat leaves are chewed for their stimulating effects, providing short-term euphoria and energy boosts.
• The active ingredient, cathinone, is a potent stimulant that can lead to addiction with regular use.
• Short-term risks of Khat use include increased heart rate, restlessness, and dehydration.
• Long-term abuse can result in serious health issues like cardiovascular problems, mental health disorders, and dental decay.
• Khat’s legality varies globally, with some countries banning it due to its addictive nature and potential for abuse.

What is Khat? #

Khat is a leafy plant used for centuries, primarily in countries like Ethiopia, Somalia, Yemen, and Kenya. While it has traditional and cultural significance in these regions, its potent stimulant effects have raised concerns about its growing use and abuse around the world. The plant contains chemicals that act like amphetamines, producing a stimulating effect when chewed. Over time, what may begin as a cultural or social activity can become a severe health risk.

Origin of Khat #

Khat is primarily grown in the highlands of East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, where the plant thrives in specific climate conditions. People in these regions have chewed Khat leaves for centuries during social gatherings, religious ceremonies, and even to stay alert during long work hours. In these cultures, Khat chewing has been viewed as a regular part of daily life, with the leaves chewed and juice extracted to produce a stimulating effect. While it may be culturally accepted, the physical impact of Khat has prompted widespread concern, especially as its use spreads beyond its traditional regions.

Active Ingredients #

The active ingredients in Khat, cathinone and cathine are stimulants that affect the brain in much the same way as amphetamines. Cathinone, in particular, is the primary substance responsible for the euphoric feeling users get when they chew Khat leaves. It speeds up the nervous system, increasing heart rate, alertness, and excitement. However, cathinone is also highly addictive, and the brain quickly builds a tolerance to its effects, causing users to need more and more of the substance to achieve the same high.

As the Khat leaves are chewed, cathinone is released into the body, providing an immediate burst of energy and focus. However, these short-lived effects often lead to repeated chewing sessions to maintain the high. Over time, this cycle of use and re-use can lead to dependence and addiction, with users experiencing intense cravings for the plant’s stimulating effects.

How Khat Is Used #

Khat leaves are typically chewed fresh. Users take a handful of the leaves, place them on their cheek, and chew them slowly to release the stimulating chemicals. The effects usually begin within minutes, with users feeling more energetic, alert, and talkative. Chewing Khat is often a social activity, with users gathering in groups to share the experience. It’s not uncommon for these chewing sessions to last for hours, with users continuing to add fresh leaves to maintain the high.

Some people have attempted to create Khat-based teas or other beverages besides chewing, but this is less common. Chewing the leaves remains the most popular method, as it delivers the chemicals more directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth.

A Cultural Tradition with Growing Risks #

While Khat has deep cultural roots, it is essential to recognize the serious risks associated with its use. The stimulant effects provided by the active ingredients cathinone and cathine may feel harmless at first, but repeated use can lead to dependence, addiction, and a range of health issues. As the use of Khat spreads beyond its traditional regions, it is increasingly being recognized as a public health concern in the countries where it is grown and worldwide.

The Immediate Effects of Chewing Khat #

Chewing Khat may produce short-term effects that feel stimulating and euphoric, but the immediate physical and mental impacts can quickly turn negative. The plant’s active stimulant, cathinone, causes a rapid surge of energy and alertness, often compared to the effects of amphetamines. For many users, this initial boost is what draws them to Khat. However, the intensity of the impact and the potential for a quick “crash” afterward make it a risky habit. Understanding how Khat works in the body and mind can help shed light on the dangers of its use.

Physical Effects #

The physical effects of Khat are almost immediate, as chewing the leaves allows the stimulant chemicals to be absorbed quickly through the mucous membranes in the mouth. Once the cathinone enters the bloodstream, it causes several changes in the body’s normal functioning.

Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure #

One of the most noticeable effects of chewing Khat is an increased heart rate. The plant’s stimulant properties cause the heart to beat faster, leading to high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues. This heightened state of alertness may feel exciting initially, but it significantly strains the heart and can be dangerous for people with underlying heart conditions.

Dry Mouth and Dehydration #

Khat users often experience dry mouth while chewing the leaves. Chewing for long periods reduces saliva production, making the mouth feel parched. Prolonged use without sufficient hydration can lead to dehydration, especially during lengthy chewing sessions when users may forget to drink water.

Restlessness and Insomnia #

Cathinone stimulates the nervous system, which leads to feelings of restlessness and sometimes even tremors. Users often find it difficult to relax or sit still while under the influence of Khat. The stimulating effects can make it hard to fall asleep, causing insomnia that can last long after the high wears off.

Mental and Emotional Effects #

Khat’s effects aren’t limited to the body—it also significantly impacts the brain and emotions. Many users chew Khat to experience feelings of euphoria and increased sociability, but these mental effects can quickly become problematic, leading to emotional instability and mood swings.

Euphoria and Talkativeness #

When the cathinone in Khat reaches the brain, it triggers a release of dopamine, a chemical that plays a key role in feelings of pleasure and reward. This leads to a sense of euphoria and heightened mood. Users may feel more talkative, energetic, and socially engaged during the initial phase of chewing Khat. These effects make the plant particularly popular in social settings where people gather to chew together.

Aggression and Irritability #

However, not all mental effects are positive. For some users, the stimulating effects of Khat can lead to increased irritability and aggression. As the high wears off and the body crashes, mood swings can become more intense, leading to frustration, anger, and even violent behavior. These mood shifts can be particularly dangerous in environments where users are already stressed or anxious.

Anxiety and Paranoia #

In some cases, Khat can trigger feelings of anxiety and paranoia, especially with prolonged use or when consumed in large quantities. The stimulant effects may cause users to feel jittery or on edge, which can worsen over time. For those prone to anxiety or mental health issues, Khat use can exacerbate these conditions, leading to more severe psychological problems.

How Long the Effects Last #

The stimulating effects of Khat typically kick in within 30 minutes to an hour after the user begins chewing. The high can last for 2 to 3 hours, depending on the quantity of Khat consumed and the user’s tolerance to the drug. Users may feel highly energetic and focused during this time, followed by a “crash” as the effects wear off. This crash often leaves users feeling exhausted, irritable, and mentally drained, leading many to chew more Khat in an attempt to regain the high.

The Crash #

As the effects of Khat fade, users commonly experience a sharp drop in energy and mood. This crash can leave them feeling fatigued, depressed, and irritable. The mental fog and lethargy that follow the high make it difficult to concentrate or complete tasks, and for some, it can lead to feelings of hopelessness or despair. This “up and down” cycle is one of the reasons Khat can be so addictive, as users continuously chase the initial high to avoid the crash.

The Temporary High with Lasting Risks #

Chewing Khat may provide a temporary sense of euphoria, energy, and sociability, but the immediate effects can harm the body and mind. The physical strain on the heart, dehydration, and restlessness make the experience uncomfortable for many users, while the emotional instability, aggression, and eventual crash leave lasting negative effects. The short-lived high often leads users to chew more Khat in an attempt to maintain the stimulating effects, creating a cycle of dependency that can quickly spiral into addiction.

The Risks of Khat Abuse #

While the immediate effects of chewing Khat may feel exhilarating or uplifting, the long-term risks are far more concerning. Regular use of Khat can lead to serious health complications, affecting not only the body but also the mind. As the drug takes hold, users often find themselves trapped in a cycle of abuse, unaware of the growing dangers to their overall well-being. Understanding Khat’s short-term and long-term health risks is essential for recognizing how easily the plant can cause harm.

Short-Term Health Risks #

Khat may provide a temporary high, but the short-term health risks associated with its use can be severe, especially when consumed in large quantities or over extended periods. The body’s reaction to the stimulant effects of cathinone puts immense strain on several systems, increasing the likelihood of adverse outcomes.

Heart Palpitations and Cardiovascular Strain #

One of the most common short-term effects of Khat abuse is heart palpitations. The stimulant nature of Khat causes the heart to beat faster and more irregularly, leading to a sensation of pounding or fluttering in the chest. For users with preexisting heart conditions, this added strain can increase the risk of heart attacks or other cardiovascular events. Even healthy individuals can experience significant stress on the heart with regular Khat use.

Dehydration and Gastrointestinal Issues #

Prolonged Khat chewing can lead to dehydration, as chewing often suppresses thirst and leads to a dry mouth. Combined with the stimulant effects, dehydration can cause headaches, dizziness, and even fainting. Khat also irritates the gastrointestinal system, leading to nausea, constipation, and loss of appetite. Users may find themselves skipping meals or unable to eat due to the drug’s effects, which over time can result in malnutrition and weight loss.

Restlessness and Sleeplessness #

Khat’s stimulating properties make users hyperactive, leading to restlessness and an inability to relax. This often spills into insomnia, making sleeping difficult after chewing Khat. The constant disruption of standard sleep patterns leads to fatigue and poor concentration, further degrading mental and physical health.

Long-Term Health Consequences #

As users chew Khat regularly, the long-term health consequences become even more pronounced. The damage caused by prolonged Khat use affects the heart, digestive system, and mental well-being, with some effects becoming irreversible over time.

Cardiovascular Problems #

Long-term Khat abuse places extreme strain on the cardiovascular system. The increased heart rate and blood pressure over prolonged periods can lead to hypertension and heart disease. For chronic users, the risk of heart attacks and strokes rises significantly as the heart struggles to cope with the continuous stress from the stimulant effects of cathinone.

Dental Decay and Oral Health Issues #

Frequent Khat chewing causes significant damage to oral health. Constant chewing leads to tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion, especially as many users neglect dental hygiene. Khat also stains the teeth a yellowish-green color over time, which can become permanent. Oral cancer has been linked to long-term Khat use due to the irritation and damage caused to the lining of the mouth and gums.

Gastrointestinal Disorders #

Khat has a profound impact on the digestive system, causing long-term users to suffer from chronic constipation, appetite loss, and gastrointestinal inflammation. Over time, this can result in more severe conditions like peptic ulcers or even liver damage. The prolonged suppression of hunger often leads to malnutrition, as users may skip meals or fail to consume necessary nutrients.

Mental Health Impact #

While the physical effects of Khat abuse are troubling, the mental health impact can be just as dangerous. Khat’s stimulant properties may create short-term feelings of euphoria, but long-term use can take a toll on emotional stability and cognitive function.

Anxiety and Depression #

Long-term Khat users often experience heightened levels of anxiety and depression. As the drug alters the brain’s dopamine and serotonin levels, users become dependent on Khat to feel pleasure or maintain a sense of well-being. When the effects of the drug wear off, users are left feeling empty, anxious, or even paranoid. This emotional instability can worsen over time, leading to more serious mental health disorders like clinical depression or panic attacks.

Paranoia and Psychosis #

In some cases, chronic Khat use has been linked to the development of paranoia and psychosis. The overstimulation of the brain caused by cathinone can result in delusions, hallucinations, and extreme suspicion of others. This psychotic behavior can make users unpredictable, leading to violent outbursts or erratic actions that can harm themselves or those around them.

Cognitive Decline #

Khat abuse also impacts cognitive function, causing memory loss, reduced concentration, and difficulty with decision-making. Over time, these cognitive effects can interfere with a user’s ability to work, study, or maintain healthy relationships. As the brain becomes increasingly reliant on the stimulant effects of Khat, users may struggle to think clearly or process information, leading to long-term damage to their mental faculties.

The Hidden Costs of Khat Abuse #

While Khat may provide a short-lived high, the risks of abuse far outweigh any temporary benefits. From heart palpitations and dehydration to long-term damage like heart disease, oral health issues, and mental health disorders, Khat takes a heavy toll on the body and mind. The stimulant effects of cathinone may feel euphoric at first, but they can quickly lead to a downward spiral of addiction and health problems. Recognizing these risks is the first step toward understanding the dangers of Khat abuse and its potentially life-altering consequences.

Khat Addiction: What You Need to Know #

Khat abuse can quickly spiral into addiction as the stimulating effects of the plant’s active ingredient, cathinone, become more burdensome to resist over time. Like many substances that affect the brain’s reward system, Khat creates a cycle of dependence, where users feel compelled to chew the leaves more frequently to maintain the high or avoid the adverse effects of withdrawal. This can lead to serious physical, mental, and social consequences as individuals lose control over their ability to stop using the drug.

How Khat Becomes Addictive #

Khat’s addictive potential lies in its ability to manipulate the brain’s dopamine system, which controls pleasure and reward. When someone chews Khat, cathinone triggers dopamine release, creating euphoria, energy, and well-being. However, these short-lived effects often lead users to chew more leaves to prolong the high. Over time, the brain begins to rely on Khat to feel good, and users develop a tolerance, needing more of the drug to achieve the same effects.

Tolerance and Dependence #

As with many stimulants, regular use of Khat leads to tolerance. The brain adapts to cathinone, meaning users must chew more Khat to achieve the same euphoric feelings. This cycle of increasing use can quickly lead to dependence, where the body and mind become accustomed to the drug. Without it, users may feel irritable, fatigued, or anxious, making quitting difficult.

The Cycle of Use #

The pattern of Khat addiction often follows a cycle of repeated use. After the initial euphoric effects wear off, users experience a crash, which can include feelings of exhaustion, irritability, and depression. To counter these negative feelings, individuals often chew Khat more, perpetuating a dependence cycle. The desire to avoid the crash, combined with the body’s growing tolerance, makes it harder for users to stop independently.

Signs of Khat Addiction #

Recognizing the signs of Khat addiction is key to understanding when recreational use has crossed the line into something more dangerous. While casual users may chew Khat occasionally without significant problems, those who develop an addiction exhibit a range of physical, psychological, and behavioral changes.

Craving and Loss of Control #

One of the most apparent signs of Khat addiction is the inability to control use. Individuals addicted to Khat often feel an overwhelming craving for the drug and may spend a large portion of their day chewing the leaves or thinking about their next session. This craving can interfere with daily responsibilities like work, school, or family obligations.

Neglect of Responsibilities #

As addiction takes hold, individuals may begin to neglect essential responsibilities in favor of using Khat. This can include missing work, skipping school, or failing to meet personal and professional commitments. The focus on getting and using Khat becomes a priority, even at the expense of personal relationships or financial stability.

Physical and Mental Health Decline #

Addiction to Khat can also lead to noticeable changes in physical appearance and mental health. Chronic users may lose weight due to a suppressed appetite, experience frequent headaches or insomnia, and suffer from irritability or mood swings. The constant cycle of euphoria and crash takes a toll on emotional well-being, leaving users feeling anxious, depressed, or paranoid when not using the drug.

Social Withdrawal #

Another common sign of addiction is social withdrawal. Individuals addicted to Khat may begin to isolate themselves from family and friends, either to spend more time chewing the leaves or to avoid judgment from others. They may also surround themselves with other Khat users, creating an environment where drug use is normalized and supported.

Social and Economic Impact of Khat Addiction #

Khat addiction doesn’t just affect the individual—it can have significant social and economic consequences as well. In regions where Khat is widely available, addiction can strain families, disrupt communities, and create financial hardships for users and their loved ones.

Impact on Families #

Families of individuals addicted to Khat often experience emotional and financial stress. The time and money spent on obtaining the drug can leave families struggling to make ends meet, while the user’s withdrawal from family life creates emotional distance. Children of Khat users may suffer from neglect, while spouses or parents may feel powerless to help their loved ones overcome the addiction.

Work and Financial Consequences #

Khat addiction also affects individuals’ ability to maintain employment. The need to spend hours chewing Khat can lead to absenteeism or poor performance at work, putting jobs at risk. Financially, Khat addiction can become a costly habit, with individuals spending a large portion of their income on the drug. Over time, this can lead to debt, poverty, and financial instability, particularly in communities where Khat use is prevalent.

Community Impact #

In areas where Khat is widely used, the social impact can ripple through entire communities. Addiction often leads to increased crime rates as individuals turn to theft or illegal activities to support their habit. The normalization of Khat use can also undermine community development, as addiction hampers productivity and contributes to social decay.

The Grip of Khat Addiction #

Khat addiction is a severe problem that affects not only the individual but their family, work life, and community as well. The addictive nature of the stimulant cathinone makes it difficult for users to quit once they’ve developed a dependency. The cycle of euphoria and crash leads to increased use, and the resulting physical, mental, and social consequences can be devastating. Understanding the signs of Khat addiction and recognizing its broader impact is crucial for addressing the growing problem of Khat abuse worldwide.

Legal Status and Global Impact of Khat #

Khat may be a traditional substance in certain parts of the world, but its legal status varies dramatically from country to country. As awareness of Khat’s addictive properties and health risks grows, many governments have taken steps to restrict or ban its use. This has led to an increase in illegal trafficking and growing concerns about the plant’s spread beyond its traditional regions. The global impact of Khat abuse is a growing problem, and the responses to it range from strict legal enforcement to public health initiatives aimed at curbing its use.

Khat’s Legal Status Around the World #

Khat’s legal status is a patchwork of differing regulations. In some regions, it remains legal and is widely used, while in others, it is classified as a dangerous drug and is completely banned. These varied legal approaches reflect cultural attitudes toward Khat and concerns about its effects on public health.

Legal in Certain African and Middle Eastern Countries #

Khat remains legal in many regions where it has been traditionally used, such as Ethiopia, Yemen, and Kenya. In these countries, it is often viewed as a cultural or social activity, and its sale and use are not heavily regulated. Khat is commonly chewed in social gatherings or used by workers for its stimulating effects during long shifts. However, even in countries where Khat is legal, there is growing awareness of the health risks and social issues associated with its abuse.

Banned in Many Western Countries #

In contrast, many Western countries have chosen to ban Khat due to concerns about its addictive properties and the potential for abuse. Countries like the United States, Canada, and most of Europe have placed Khat on their lists of controlled substances. In these regions, the possession, sale, and use of Khat can result in criminal penalties, similar to other illegal drugs. The ban is primarily driven by concerns over the stimulant effect of cathinone, which is classified alongside other dangerous amphetamines.

Variations in Legal Restrictions #

Some countries take a more moderate approach to Khat, regulating its sale without fully banning it. For example, the United Kingdom made Khat illegal in 2014 after concerns about its effects on health and society, but enforcement in other countries varies. In places like Australia and New Zealand, Khat is classified as a controlled substance, but with restrictions on its import rather than its use.

Global Spread of Khat Abuse #

Khat’s use has spread beyond its traditional geographic boundaries, becoming a global issue as people migrate and the plant is trafficked across borders. What was once a regional practice has become a growing concern in parts of Europe, North America, and Asia as the global demand for Khat rises.

Khat in Western Countries #

As immigration from East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula increases, so does the demand for Khat in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. While these countries have banned the plant, it is still smuggled in and consumed by those who view it as part of their cultural traditions. However, as Khat becomes more available, it’s not just migrant communities using it—others experiment with the drug for its stimulant effects, raising public health concerns in countries where Khat use was previously unknown.

Khat Trafficking #

With bans in place, Khat trafficking has become a significant issue. Smugglers transport fresh Khat leaves across international borders, often hiding them in shipments of other goods. Once inside a country where the plant is banned, Khat is distributed through underground networks, making it difficult for law enforcement to track. This illegal trade fuels organized crime and contributes to the global spread of Khat abuse. The United Nations and other international bodies have recognized Khat trafficking as an emerging problem, calling for greater collaboration between countries to tackle the issue.

Efforts to Control Khat Trafficking #

Several efforts are underway to curb the illegal trafficking of Khat, especially in countries where the plant is banned. Law enforcement agencies increasingly focus on smuggling routes and work with international partners to crack down on the trade.

Increased Border Control and Surveillance #

Countries that have banned Khat are stepping up efforts to intercept illegal shipments. Increased border control and surveillance, especially at airports and shipping docks, have led to the seizure of large quantities of Khat. Law enforcement agencies are also working with international partners to share intelligence and disrupt trafficking networks.

Public Awareness Campaigns #

In addition to law enforcement efforts, some governments have launched public awareness campaigns to educate people about the risks of Khat abuse. These campaigns often target communities where Khat use is more common, offering information about its health risks and the legal consequences of possession. Public health officials also work to dispel myths about Khat being a harmless social activity, instead highlighting the severe consequences of addiction and long-term abuse.

Efforts to Curb Khat Production #

Efforts to reduce Khat production in its traditional growing regions have also been implemented. Some governments encourage farmers to switch from growing Khat to other crops, providing financial incentives or support to move away from Khat cultivation. These efforts aim to reduce the supply of Khat and slow its spread to other regions.

A Global Problem with Local Roots #

Khat abuse is no longer confined to the regions where the plant has traditionally been used. Its global spread has made it a growing concern in countries around the world, leading to varying legal responses and increased efforts to combat its trafficking. While Khat remains legal in some countries, many governments are recognizing its addictive properties and the serious health risks associated with its abuse. The challenge now lies in balancing cultural practices with public health needs as the world grapples with the expanding reach of Khat and the dangers it presents.

Conclusion #

In some regions, Khat may have deep cultural roots, but its risks are now widely recognized globally. The plant’s stimulating effects, driven by its active ingredient cathinone, can lead to serious health issues, from cardiovascular problems to mental health disorders. As Khat’s use spreads beyond its traditional boundaries, it has become a cause for concern in countries where its addictive potential is better understood. Efforts to control Khat abuse through legal bans, public health campaigns, and border enforcement are vital in preventing further harm. However, education about the dangers of Khat abuse remains the most critical tool in curbing its global impact. Recognizing the risks and understanding the consequences is the first step toward addressing the problem.

FAQs About Khat Abuse & Addiction #

What is Khat, and how is it used? #

Khat is a plant native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It contains cathinone, a stimulant that produces feelings of euphoria and increased energy. Khat leaves are typically chewed, releasing the active chemicals into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth.

Is Khat addictive? #

Yes, Khat is highly addictive. The active stimulant cathinone causes a temporary high, leading users to chew more to maintain the effects. Over time, this can result in dependence, where the user feels compelled to continue using Khat and struggles to quit.

What are the short-term effects of chewing Khat? #

Short-term effects of chewing Khat include increased heart rate, euphoria, alertness, and talkativeness. However, these effects are often followed by a “crash” that leaves users feeling fatigued, irritable, and restless.

What are the long-term health risks of Khat use? #

Long-term Khat abuse can lead to cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure and heart disease. It also causes dental decay, gastrointestinal issues, and can severely impact mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and paranoia.

How does Khat affect mental health? #

Khat stimulates the brain’s dopamine system, causing euphoria in the short term. However, long-term use can lead to mental health problems like anxiety, depression, and even paranoia or psychosis, especially as users develop a dependence on the drug.

Is Khat illegal? #

Khat is illegal in many Western countries, including the United States, Canada, and most of Europe. In these countries, possession, sale, or use of Khat can result in criminal penalties. However, it remains legal in some African and Middle Eastern countries where it is traditionally used.

How does Khat’s abuse impact families and communities? #

Khat addiction often leads to financial difficulties, as users spend large amounts of money on the drug. It can also strain family relationships due to neglect of responsibilities and social withdrawal. In communities where Khat use is prevalent, addiction can hinder economic development and contribute to increased crime rates.

Why is Khat banned in some countries? #

Khat is banned in many countries due to its addictive properties and the health risks associated with its use. Governments are concerned about the plant’s potential to cause widespread addiction, heart problems, and mental health issues and its role in illegal trafficking.

What are the signs of Khat addiction? #

Signs of Khat addiction include cravings for the drug, increased tolerance (needing more Khat to achieve the same effect), neglect of personal or professional responsibilities, physical health decline, and social isolation.

How widespread is Khat trafficking? #

Khat trafficking has become a global issue as the plant is smuggled into countries where it is banned. The illegal trade fuels organized crime and poses challenges for law enforcement agencies trying to prevent its distribution.

Resources #

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991038/

https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/khat

https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Khat-2020_0.pdf

https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/khat/