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Khat is a shrub that grows in eastern Africa and southern Arabia. Its leaves and twigs are chewed to release natural amphetamines, which provide stimulating effects. In the past the use of this plant was geographically limited to these areas because it loses its efficacy after a few days. However, with developments in communications and transportation, especially by air, and the migration of khat-using communities to other continents, its use has spread over the last three decades. The study of khat and its use is not simply an exploration of its history, chemistry or cultural context. In order to understand its effects – cultural, economic, pharmacological, physiological, psychological, etc. – it is necessary to examine a range of different facets. Its toxicological effects, morbidity (physical and psychological) and mortality, particularly the latter, are factors that have been present for many years in the literature but either appear to have been unrecognised and/or unreported and/or down-played. However, they have a significant impact on the well-being and health of khat users, their families and communities. These consequences need to be understood so that appropriate education and interventions can be provided to these groups.

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