Occupational dermatological risks from bioactive compounds in Catha edulis (C. edulis): a GC–MS and cross-sectional study in Embu County, Kenya

Catha edulis (C. edulis) is a psychostimulant plant widely cultivated in Eastern Africa, notably valued for its economic contribution. While its primary alkaloids, cathinone and cathine, are well-documented, limited research exists on its broader chemical profile and associated occupational health risks. This study characterized the chemical constituents of C. edulis cultivated in Embu County, Kenya, and assessed potential dermatological impacts on smallholder farmers. Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), 30 bioactive compounds were identified, including high levels of terpenes such as 2-carene (12.3 µg/g) and 4-terpinenyl acetate. A cross-sectional survey of 250 C. edulis harvesters revealed that 68% reported recurrent skin conditions, with these compounds implicated as potential irritants. These findings highlight the lack of occupational health safeguards in informal agricultural economies. We recommend integrating C. edulis under Kenya’s narcotics control framework, not for prohibition, but to enable policy interventions mandating personal protective equipment (PPE) use and community-led health training programs. These measures align with Sustainable Development Goal 3, emphasizing healthy lives and well-being, particularly in underserved rural settings. The study provides critical evidence for reclassifying C. edulis cultivation as an occupational health concern and offers a comprehensive phytochemical profile of C. edulis.