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.