User-Reported benefits of khat
Users of khat report a range of immediate effects that they consider beneficial:
Increased alertness and concentration: Khat is often used by workers and students to stay awake and improve focus.
Enhanced mood and euphoria: Chewing khat can produce feelings of optimism, excitement, and a general sense of well-being.
Increased energy and talkativeness: Users often feel more energetic and social during a chewing session.
Appetite suppression: Khat acts as an anorectic, which some users perceive as a benefit for weight control.
Relief from fatigue and depression: In traditional medicine, khat has been used to treat fatigue and symptoms of depression.
Analgesic effects: Some users believe it helps alleviate minor body pains, headaches, and toothaches.
Increased sexual desire: While studies are conflicting and the long-term effect is often decreased libido, some users report a temporary increase in sexual motivation.