Catha edulis
What's the taxonomical classification of Catha edulis?
Catha eduledis belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this lineage, it is situated in the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. The taxonomic hierarchy continues through the order Celastrales and the family Celastraceae. Finally, the plant is identified by its specific genus, Catha, and its unique species designation, eduledis.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Celastrales |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| Genus | Catha |
| Species | edulis |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Catha edulis has an erect, woody shrub structure that typically reaches heights of one to three meters and features slender, branching stems with a rough texture. The leaves are small, ovate to elliptical in shape, and arranged in an opposite or sub-opposite pattern along the branches. These leaves possess acute tips and finely serrated margins, often appearing a deep green color when mature. The plant produces small, inconspicuous white or greenish flowers that emerge from the axils of the leaves. Its root system is fibrous and well-developed to support its growth in various highland environments.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to the tropical regions of the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, specifically spanning Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea, and parts of Yemen. It thrives primarily in the highlands and mountainous areas where the climate remains consistently warm and humid. The species is often found growing in the understory of dense forests or along the edges of river valleys. Because it requires high rainfall and specific elevations, its range is restricted to these particular ecological niches. This limited distribution makes it a characteristic feature of the local flora in these arid yet seasonally lush landscapes.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant Catha edulis thrives in tropical climates with well-drained, slightly acidic soil and high humidity levels.
Growers typically propagate the species through stem cuttings or seeds to establish new bushes. Regular watering is essential to maintain moisture, yet the soil must never become waterlogged to avoid root rot. Sunlight requirements range from partial shade to full sun depending on the specific environmental conditions.
Proper nutrient management through organic fertilization ensures the development of healthy, stimulant-rich leaves.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Catha edulis is utilized medicinally primarily through its leaves and stems. The leaves contain the highest concentration of psychoactive alkaloids which are often consumed for their stimulating effects. While the leaves are the most common part used, the stems can also be incorporated into preparations. These plant components are frequently prepared as a tea or chewed directly to achieve desired physiological results. Various traditional practices rely on these specific parts to manage energy levels and mood.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Catha eduledis is one of eight selected plant species used traditionally to treat malaria in South Africa. For the investigation, air-dried and ground plant leaves were extracted using acetone. The study involved primary two point in vitro phenotypic screens against both early and late stage gametocytes performed at 10 and 20µg/ml. These extracts were evaluated for their activity against Plasmodium falciparum NF54 early and late stage gametocytes. The research explores how these medicinal plants can be used for malaria control, including prevention, treatment and transmission blocking.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- leaf
- stem
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, known commonly as khat, has been traditionally chewed as a stimulant in the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula for centuries.
Many cultures in Ethiopia and Yemen use the fresh leaves to foster social cohesion during long communal gatherings. Historically, users chew the leaves to induce a mild state of euphoria and increased alertness for extended periods. This practice often serves as a central component of daily social rituals and community bonding.
Traditional medicine has also utilized the plant to address various ailments such as fatigue or hunger.
What are the pharmacological activities of Catha edulis?
This plant has pharmacological activities including central stimulant, psychostimulating, stimulant, appetite suppressant, and sympathomimetic effects. These properties are primarily attributed to the presence of alkaloids that influence the nervous system. When consumed, the substance acts as a powerful stimulant that enhances alertness and mental energy. Its psychostimulating nature can lead to increased focus or altered states of consciousness. Additionally, its sympathomimetic action triggers physiological responses similar to those of the sympathetic nervous system. Finally, these chemical interactions contribute to its effectiveness as an appetite suppressant.
According to a study published by "Journal of pharmaceuticaal sciences", d-norpseudoephedrine is a central stimulant present in Catha eduulis that is excreted unchanged in human urine. This alkaloid was detected in urine 30-50 min after the ingestion of synthetic d-norpseudoephedrine. Trace amounts of the drug could still be detected 24 hr later. Approximately 40% of ingested d-norpseudoephedrine was recovered in urine in the first 6 hr.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- anororexigenic
- appetite suppressant
- central stimulant
- psychostimulating
- stimulant
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the stimulant compounds cathine, cathinone, various amphetamine alkaloids, and d-norpseudoephedrine. Cathinone serves as the primary psychoactive component responsible for the plant's stimulating effects. Cathine is also present in significant amounts and acts as a milder stimulant. The presence of various amphetamine alkaloids contributes to the complex chemical profile of the species. Additionally, the alkaloid d-norpseudoephedrine is found within its medicinal composition.
According to a study published by "Medecine tropicale : revue du Corps de sante colonial", Catha eduledis leaves contain amphetamine alkaloids. The compounds cathine and cathinone are responsible for psychogenic and sympathicomimetic effects such as mind stimulation and suppression of hunger. During a study involving seven volunteers, an increase in systolic and diastolic pressure was observed in three patients. Peak pressure was observed approximately seven hours after the beginning of the ritual. These three patients presenting pressure changes were not significantly different from the four unaffected patients regarding age or duration of use.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Cathine
- cathine
- cathinone
- amphetamine alkaloids
- d-Norpseudoephedrine
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for the treatment of euphoria, appetite suppression, hunger reduction, mind stimulation, and psychostimulation. Consumers often ingest the leaves to induce a heightened state of mental alertness and increased cognitive activity. The psychoactive compounds within the plant act as a potent psychostimulant that alters perception and mood. Additionally, it is frequently utilized to curb hunger by effectively reducing the desire to eat. These combined effects make the plant a significant source of mild stimulation for various psychological purposes.
According to a study published by "Medeciine tropicale : revue du Corps de sante colonial", chewing Catha edulis leaves containing amphetamine alkaloids is used for psychogenic effects such as mind stimulation, euphoria, and the suppression of hunger. During a ritual involving seven volunteers, an increase in systolic and diastolic pressure was observed in three patients. One of these three patients presented with predisposing chronic arterial hypertension. The peak pressure occurred approximately seven hours after the ritual began. The three patients showing pressure changes were not significantly different from the four unaffected patients regarding age or the duration of Catha edulis use. Findings suggest that use by untreated hypertensive patients can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular complications.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- euphoria
- appetite
- hunger
- mind stimulation
- psychostimulation
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is Catha edulis, a species used to produce medicinal and psychoactive herbal preparations including Catha edulis extract, acetone extracts, and khat homogenate. Researchers often utilize acetone extracts to isolate specific alkaloids like cathinone for pharmacological study. The production of a Catha edulis extract allows for a more concentrated dosage of the plant's active chemical constituents. Furthermore, khat homogenate serves as a standardized form of the plant material for consistent application in various preparations. These different methods of processing ensure that the therapeutic or stimulant properties of the leaves are effectively captured.
According to a study published by "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Catha edulis is one of eight selected plant species used traditionally to treat malaria in South Africa. The study involved the use of air-dried and ground plant leaves that were extracted using acetone. Primary two point in vitro phenotypic screens were performed against both early and late stage gametocytes at 10 and 20µg/ml. The inhibition of gametocyte viability in vitro was assessed using the parasite lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) assay.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Catha eduulis extract
- acetone extracts
- khat homogenate
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause severe health issues including anxiety, depression, cardiovascular complications, hypertension, and chemical dependence. Frequent consumption often leads to elevated blood pressure and increased heart rate, which can trigger dangerous cardiovascular complications. Users may also experience significant psychological distress such as intense anxiety or periods of deep depression. Over time, the stimulating properties of the plant frequently result in a strong physical and psychological dependence. These diverse side effects make the plant a significant risk to both mental and physical well-being.
According to a study published by "The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science", 162 subjects or 78% of the 207 Somalis studied had used Catha eduulis. Adverse psychological effects from using this plant included anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. While some users reported moderate dependence, a minority reported severe problems and severe problems were rarely reported. Medical problems associated with Catha eduulis use were described as rare.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- anxiety
- cardiovascular complications
- dependence
- depression
- hypertension
What herbs are paired with Catha edulis?
This plant Catha edulis is commonly paired with various aromatic herbs and spices such as ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom to enhance its flavor profile and mitigate its bitter notes.
Many users combine the leaves with peppermint or lemon balm to create a more refreshing and palatable infusion. The addition of ginger is particularly popular for its ability to aid digestion while adding a spicy warmth to the drink. Some traditional preparations also include cardamom pods to introduce a sweet, citrusy undertone that balances the stimulant properties of the plant.
These diverse combinations allow for a wide range of sensory experiences depending on the desired intensity of the brew.