African tea
Noun: A plant substance consisting of the leaves of the shrub Catha edulis. These leaves are chewed fresh or dried, or used to brew a tea. The substance acts as a central nervous system stimulant, producing feelings of euphoria, increased energy, and alertness.
The term "African tea" refers specifically to the plant material itself, which is consumed for its stimulant effects. - The traditional use of African tea is common in social gatherings. - He brought a bundle of dried African tea leaves.
- Cultural Context: The term is often used in anthropological, botanical, or substance-related discussions to describe the plant and its traditional use, particularly in regions of East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
- Scientific/Formal Context: In scientific literature, the botanical name or the local term "khat" or "qat" is more common, with "African tea" serving as a descriptive English term.
- Khat (also spelled qat, kat): The most common name for the plant and its leaves.
- Catha edulis: The formal botanical name.
- Miraa: A common name for the plant in Kenya.
- Stimulant: A general category for substances that increase activity in the body or brain, which includes the effects of African tea.
- Khat
- Qat
- Catha edulis leaves
"African tea" is a direct reference to the physical leaves of the Catha edulis shrub. It does not refer to a typical brewed beverage like black or green tea, but rather to a specific plant with psychoactive properties. Its primary meaning is tied to its use as a stimulant.
- the leaves of the shrub Catha edulis which are chewed like tobacco or used to make tea; has the effect of a euphoric stimulant
- in Yemen kat is used daily by 85% of adults