Botanical Overview
Catha edulis (family Celastraceae), commonly known as Khat, Qat, Arabian tea, Mirra, or Miraa, is a flowering shrub native to the Horn of Africa and Arabian Peninsula regions, as well as East Africa. The fresh leaves and twigs are traditionally used for their stimulant properties.
Energetics
The plant is considered warming and drying, with a bitter and astringent taste. Its action is ascending and tonifying, primarily affecting the qi energy.
Primary Actions
- Stimulant
- Nervine
Indications
Western
- Fatigue
- Lethargy
- Mood depression
- Mild psychomotor impairment
Syndromes
TCM
Syndromes
Ayurveda
Syndromes
Unani
- Mental fatigue
- Low energy
Syndromes
Constituents & Mechanisms
Main phytochemical constituents include stimulant alkaloids cathinone and cathine, phenylalkylamines, and flavonoids which contribute to its central nervous system stimulant effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Fresh leaf chewed traditionally
- Leaf infusion (not well standardized)
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution; contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, and in cardiovascular and psychiatric conditions. Potential for addiction and side effects such as hypertension, tachycardia, insomnia, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Possible interactions with monoamine oxidase inhibitors and other stimulant drugs.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable information found on planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- The WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy: 2002-2005
- Catha edulis – PFAF Plant Database
- Khat (Catha edulis) – EMCDDA
- Pharmacological and Toxicological Effects of Catha edulis (Khat) by Kalix, P.