Biochemical effects of Catha edulis, cathine and cathinone on adrenocortical functions.

Catha edulis is a plant that grows in certain areas of East Africa and the Arab Peninsula. The stimulating properties of fresh material were described more than seven centuries ago and today the habit of inducing a state of euphoria and subjective well-being by chewing Catha edulis prevails among the inhabitants of these regions. Oral administration of this plant and its active constituents (cathine and cathione) on experimental animals might have stimulating effects on adrenocortical function. This was indicated by the significant decrease in adrenal cholesterol, ascorbic acid, glycogen, and the increase in adrenal phosphorylase activity. In addition, the level of urinary 17-hydroxycorticosteroids and plasma free fatty acids were increased.