Khat is a stimulant that produces an effect within 20 minutes. Users usually chew 50 to 200 grams of the leaves. Following initial feelings of mild euphoria, talkativeness and suppression of appetite, users of khat have reported calming effects after a few hours. Other pleasurable effects may include increased alertness and excitement. Unpleasant effects can include impaired concentration and judgement, mood swings, confusion, disorientation and increase in nervousness and tension.
Unwanted physical and health effects associated with regular khat chewing include: