The khat dilemma

In this guest blog, Professor Kamaldeep Bhui discusses the health issues surrounding the plant khat, and the need for more research into its effects on physical and mental health.  A Home Office report on khat and the social and health harms associated with its use was recently published with the view that there was insufficient evidence that it caused health problems. The report considered a great deal of evidence from scientists, communities, and legal and clinical experts, including ourselves [Cultural Consultation Service], taking international as well as local evidence into account. Although legal in the UK, khat has been banned