Community advised over legal drug

Community advised over legal drug

Concern grows that young people are over using the drug

Drug agencies are warning people in Leicester about the dangers of a legal drug being sold in the city.

They are publishing a leaflet on Khat - a substance traditionally used by the Somali community which can act as a stimulant when chewed.

The agencies recognise it is a cultural practice for many Somali's, but advise that excessive usage can have adverse effects.

Khat has already been banned in parts of America where it has been classed as a high level narcotic.

'Used to socialise'

Lesley Owen, a drugs worker with Leicester Community Projects Trust, said: "I had two clients referred to me who were experiencing problems due to chewing excessive Khat.

"They were getting insomnia, lack of appetite, feeling very depressed and low.

"Traditionally it would have been chewed occasionally in the evenings after a hearty meal and I think what is happening is it is being chewed in a totally different way."

Many people do not see Khat, which is grown in East Africa, as a dangerous drug.

A Somali project co-ordinator, Muhammad Afrah, feels that Khat is mainly used safely.

"It is used to socialise and to make fun and discuss with friends after work.

"We come together in our homes and we sit there and chew Khat for a few hours.

"It is better than going out for several hours to drink."