Subchronic administration of Catha edulis F. (khat) extract is marked by elevation of cardiac biomarkers and subendocardial necrosis besides blood pressure alteration in rats

Abstract Ethnpharmacological relevance Khat is a widely chewed herb for its stimulant effect, however, its effects on the cardiovascular system are a source of growing concern, as prevalence of chewing is increasing and susceptible individuals may experience cardiovascular episodes. This study attempted to evaluate cardiovascular substrates that predispose individuals to these episodes by using both biochemical and morphologic–pathologic studies. Materials and methods Rats were treated with either Tween 80 (2% in distilled water) (CON), or khat extract (100 mg/kg, K100; 200 mg/kg, K200; or 400 mg/kg, K400 doses) orally for 6 weeks. Blood pressure (BP) in each group was measured before dosing and 1, 2 and 3 h after-dose as well as weekly for 6 weeks using Tail cuff method. On day 45, blood was drawn for assessment of cardiac biomarkers and animals were sacrificed, and histological examination was undertaken for any overt damage on the myocardium. Results K400 was the only dose that significantly increased BP at 2 ( p p p p p p p p p Conclusions These findings collectively indicate that the high dose of crude khat extract modulated most of the hemodynamic, biochemical and histopathological parameters in rats and hence chronic use of khat at higher dose and for longer sessions bear a significant risk for cardiovascular morbidities.