What is Kat (Khat)?
Kat, more commonly spelled as khat, is a flowering evergreen shrub native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula [1.2.1, 1.2.5]. It is a stimulant drug abused for its euphoric effects, which are produced by chewing its fresh leaves [1.2.2]. The plant's two primary active ingredients are cathinone and cathine, which are controlled substances in many countries, including the United States, where cathinone is a Schedule I drug and cathine is Schedule IV [1.2.2]. Common street names include Abyssinian Tea, African Salad, Chat, Qat, and Miraa [1.2.1].
The traditional method of use involves chewing the fresh leaves and holding them in the cheek to intermittently release the active chemicals [1.2.2]. Dried khat can also be made into a tea or paste, smoked, or sprinkled on food [1.2.1]. The effects are often compared to those of other stimulants like amphetamine, causing increased alertness, talkativeness, and feelings of euphoria [1.3.3, 1.5.5].
It is important not to confuse khat with methcathinone, a synthetic substance sometimes called 'cat' [1.2.4]. While derived from the same plant family, methcathinone is a more potent, illegally manufactured drug with a similar but more intense effect profile [1.2.6, 1.2.7].
The Pharmacology of Khat's Active Compounds
The primary psychoactive compound in fresh khat is cathinone, which is structurally and pharmacologically similar to amphetamine [1.8.6]. It works by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain [1.7.2, 1.6.4]. This action stimulates the central nervous system, leading to feelings of increased energy, confidence, and concentration while suppressing appetite [1.3.4, 1.5.5].
Cathinone is unstable and breaks down into the less potent cathine as the leaves dry out, which is why users prefer fresh leaves [1.7.2]. Cathinone has a short elimination half-life of approximately 1.5 to 4.3 hours [1.5.6, 1.5.1]. The half-life of cathine is longer, around 5.2 hours [1.5.6]. The effects of chewing khat typically begin within an hour, with peak plasma concentrations of cathinone reached between 1.5 and 3.5 hours after chewing begins [1.3.3]. Due to its short half-life, cathinone is often barely detectable in the blood eight hours after use [1.5.6]. The body metabolizes cathinone extensively in the liver, with less than 7% being excreted unchanged in the urine [1.7.2, 1.5.6].
How Long is Kat Detectable in the Body?
The detection window for khat depends on which substance is being tested (cathinone or cathine) and the type of test used. Because cathinone metabolizes relatively quickly, most tests look for its metabolites, primarily cathine.
- Urine Tests: Khat's metabolites can be detected in urine for approximately 1 to 3 days after last use [1.3.2]. Some sources suggest the compounds may be metabolized and detectable within a 24-48 hour window [1.3.1]. Frequency of use can extend this window; for a heavy, chronic user, detection may be possible for a longer period [1.4.2].
- Blood Tests: Blood tests have a much shorter detection window. Cathinone is typically detectable for only a few hours after use, becoming barely traceable after about eight hours [1.5.6].
- Saliva Tests: Saliva tests offer a detection window of up to 48 hours for many stimulants, though for khat specifically, it may be closer to 24 hours [1.4.3].
- Hair Tests: Hair follicle testing provides the longest detection window. Like many substances, traces of khat use can be found in hair for up to 90 days or even longer, depending on the length of the hair sample [1.4.5, 1.4.7].
Comparison of Kat (Khat) Detection Windows
| Test Type | Typical Detection Window |
|---|---|
| Urine | 1 to 3 days [1.3.2] |
| Blood | Up to 8 hours [1.5.6] |
| Saliva | Up to 48 hours [1.4.3] |
| Hair | Up to 90 days or more [1.4.5] |
Factors Influencing Detection Times
Several individual factors can affect how long khat remains detectable in a person's system. These variables influence how the body processes and eliminates the drug [1.6.1].
- Metabolism: Individuals with a faster metabolic rate will process and eliminate cathinone and its byproducts more quickly [1.6.1].
- Dose and Frequency of Use: Higher doses and chronic, frequent use will lead to a longer detection period compared to a single, small dose [1.6.6]. The body accumulates higher concentrations of the substance, which takes more time to clear [1.6.6].
- Body Mass and Health: A person's overall health, size, and body fat percentage can play a role. Liver and kidney function are particularly important for drug metabolism and excretion [1.6.1, 1.8.2].
- Hydration: Since most drug metabolites are cleared through urine, being well-hydrated can slightly speed up the elimination process [1.6.1].
- Age: Older individuals may metabolize substances more slowly than younger people, potentially extending the detection window [1.6.1].
Health Risks and Side Effects
While some users perceive khat as a safe, natural plant, its use is associated with significant health risks, especially with chronic and excessive consumption [1.6.3].
Short-Term Effects:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure [1.2.1]
- Euphoria, alertness, and talkativeness [1.5.5]
- Insomnia and loss of appetite [1.2.1]
- Anxiety, paranoia, and potential for manic behavior or hallucinations at high doses [1.2.4]
Long-Term Effects:
- Cardiovascular: Chronic use is linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart attack (myocardial infarction), and stroke [1.8.6, 1.8.1].
- Gastrointestinal: Problems can include gastritis, constipation, ulcers, and an increased risk of oral cancer [1.2.4, 1.8.5].
- Psychological: Psychological dependence is a major risk, with withdrawal symptoms including depression, irritability, and nightmares [1.8.1, 1.6.3]. Chronic abuse can lead to violence or suicidal depression [1.8.3].
- Liver Damage: Reports indicate a risk of liver damage (hepatotoxicity), including chemical hepatitis, from long-term use [1.2.1, 1.8.1].
Conclusion
Khat, or kat, is a plant-based stimulant whose active compounds, cathinone and cathine, can remain in the body for varying lengths of time. While its effects may be short-lived, with cathinone having a half-life of only a few hours, drug tests can detect its use for days in urine and months in hair [1.3.2, 1.4.5, 1.5.6]. The exact duration is influenced by numerous personal factors, including metabolism, frequency of use, and overall health [1.6.1]. Given the significant potential for psychological dependence and serious long-term health consequences like cardiovascular disease and liver damage, understanding the risks associated with khat use is crucial [1.8.1, 1.8.6].
For more information on controlled substances, one authoritative source is the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. [1.2.1]
