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Banned and 'forgotten' drug: What happened to khat?

The article from MSN discusses the history and current status of khat, a plant native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, known for its psychoactive properties. Khat contains cathinone, a stimulant similar to amphetamines, which provides users with feelings of euphoria, increased alertness, and energy. Historically, khat has been chewed for centuries in social settings, but its use has led to significant controversy. In the 1980s, the U.S. classified cathinone as a Schedule I drug, effectively banning khat due to its potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use. This classification has led to khat being largely forgotten in Western countries, although it remains culturally significant in regions like Yemen and Ethiopia. The article explores how khat's legal status has impacted its users, with some communities still practicing its use despite the bans, while others have moved on to other substances or faced legal repercussions. The piece also touches on the cultural implications of banning khat, the economic effects on regions where it is a major crop, and the ongoing debate about its regulation versus prohibition.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/general/banned-and-forgotten-drug-what-happened-to-khat/ar-AA1vQxkd ]