Khat types – The different forms in which Khat is taken

Catha Edulis, popularly known as khat is a natural stimulant. It is a slow-growing shrub that can grow to a height of 1.5 to 20 meters tall. Its growth depends on the soil and the amount of rainfall the region receives. The leaves are evergreen and are 5 to 10 cm long and 1 to 4 cm broad. The shrub produces flowers that are 4 to 8 cm long with every flower having five white petals. Khat leaves are glossy and crimson-brown but become yellow-green when they age. They also emit a strong smell.

Khat is also known by various names like Qat, Kat, Mirra, Quat, African Salad, Kus-es-Salahin, Somali tea, Herari, Tschat, Tohai, African Tea, Abyssinian Tea and other names.

Khat types

There are mainly two types of Khats available in the UK- Mirra, the Kenyan Khat which is believed to be have stronger effects. The stems of Mirra are also chewed sometimes to increase the potency of the leafy narcotic. The other type is Herari, which is the Ethiopian khat. Herari is believed to have milder effect and only the leaves of the Herari are chewed.

Khat is also taken in a dried form popularly known as Abyssinian Tea or African Tea. It is dried using similar processes like tea and taken in the same manner as regular tea. The dried Khat leaves give a golden infusion when mixed with lukewarm water and tastes slightly bitter but is said to deliver a very soothing effect on the nerves.

Availability and packaging of khat

Khat is generally packed in plastic bags or wrapped in banana leaves to retain the freshness and moisture. The leaves should be sprinkled with water during transport to keep the leaves moist. Khat is also sold as dried and crushed leaves or in the powdered form.

Soon you will be able to order khat from our site.

We are working very hard for that.

Thank you for your patience.

e-Khat Team.