Khat

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Khat

Stimulants

What is it?

Stimulant drug made from the leaves and twigs, evergreen shrub. Active ingredients are cathine and cathinone.

Street Names

Abyssinian Tea, African Salad, Catha, Chat, Kat, Miraa, Oat, Qat, Quaadka,

How is it used?

ChewedDried Khat is used as a tea or chewable pasteSmoked, sprinkled on food

How does it affect the body?

Manic behavior with grandiose delusionsChronic use can cause depression and suicideHallucinations, paranoia, nightmaresEuphoria, increased alertness and energy, hyperactivityIncrease in blood pressure and heart rateCardiac complicationsInsomnia, gastric disorders

Download Fact Sheet