Related Experiment Videos
Catha edulis, a plant that has amphetamine effects
1Département de Pharmacologie, Centre medical universitaire, Geneve, Switzerland.
Pharmacy World & Science : PWS
|April 1, 1996
Summary
Khat (Catha edulis) leaves are chewed for their stimulating effects, primarily due to the alkaloid cathinone. This natural amphetamine
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Ethnobotany
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Khat (Catha edulis) chewing is a widespread practice in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
- The plant's leaves possess significant stimulating properties, leading to their traditional use.
- Recent advancements have improved the understanding of khat's pharmacological mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the primary psychoactive compound responsible for khat's stimulant effects.
- To characterize the pharmacological actions of khat and its key constituents.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent pharmacological and chemical research on Catha edulis.
- Analysis of the active alkaloid responsible for the stimulant properties.
Main Results:
- The stimulant effects of khat are predominantly attributed to the alkaloid cathinone.
- Cathinone exhibits pharmacological actions similar to amphetamines.
Conclusions:
- Cathinone is identified as the principal active substance in khat leaves.
- Khat's stimulant properties are mediated by cathinone, a naturally occurring amphetamine analogue.