The Story & Purpose Behind KHÄT

    My journey with KHÄT began in 2003 during the invasion of Iraq.  As a U.S. Marine, I was thrust into combat alongside many of my friends, and it was there that I first encountered khat (Catha edulis)—a stimulant that the Iraqi Fedayeen relied on to push through the unforgiving demands of war.  It was everywhere, and it was those men's way of getting through the pain, staying alert, and keeping in the fight.  Just like the Fedayeen did in my first two deployments, on my third, this time to Afghanistan, the Taliban also had their own dependence on khat.  They regularly used it to fuel their operations in the harsh desert and mountainous environments of Helmand...however this time it seemed to be 10-times more abundant. ​

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    Throughout these wild experiences, we encountered countless amounts of khat, along with large amounts of marijuana and black tar heroin—freshly harvested from the summer poppies.  It was an eye-opening experience, both in Iraq and Afghanistan, seeing how such substances were relied upon by these people to cope with the rigors of war, and endure the challenges of basic daily life.  As I slowly watched the consequences of their addictions unfold on the battlefield, I also saw the destructive power of dependency unfolding in a completely different way.  Inevitably, upon my return home, I faced my own struggles—both physically and mentally—and realized that addiction was an insidious force, capable of derailing even the strongest warriors.

That was the catalyst for my idea...

 

    As a U.S. Marine, I’ve seen firsthand the psychological toll combat takes on a person.  In some regards, when you're in the moment, it actually feels pretty good.  Those highs, however, quickly fade away once you return home.  The mental health struggles that follow war, are real.  They’re raw.  And far too many of us are left to fight those battles alone.  I wanted to create something that would help take my mind off of some of these feelings.  Something safe, something healthy, and something natural.  Ultimately, I was looking for a better alternative than to where I felt my path was heading.

 

    KHÄT was born from that desire.  The name stands for “Keeping Health Above Temptation,” and it is an herbal-based option that supports mental health, personal well-being, and an overall healthier lifestyle.  Id like to believe that KHÄT is more than just a product; it’s a movement.  It's a middle-finger to the demons and struggles that try so hard to push great people down dark and lonely alleys.  It’s about taking control of your own wellness—mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally.

 

So, then why do some of the KHÄT products include nicotine?

 

    I get it...nicotine is an addictive substance, and a tough habit to break free of.  While I personally choose not to use nicotine regularly, I understand the purpose it serves for others.  Nicotine salt products, like those in our pouches, are a healthier alternative to traditional tobacco, and our nicotine-based formulas are created as a tobacco cessation aid.  For those seeking an even healthier option, our 100% herbal blends are my personal go-to, and they've made a huge difference for me.  My blood pressure is down, I've replaced a lot of alcohol with our Tea's, and I've practically kicked the nicotine habit all-together.  These herbal blends are the vice I use to manage the everyday stresses of life, and I’m proud to offer them as a safe, healthy alternative for others.

 

    The bottom-line is that you'll get no judgment from here—I would prefer that we all break free from the habits of nicotine and alcohol, yet I recognize that the struggle is real for many.  With KHÄT, I’m hoping to provide you with a safer, more controlled option—one that doesn’t carry the same harmful risks as tobacco or other substances like those I’ve seen on the battlefield.  Regardless of the formula you choose, I stand by these products and I assure you that you’ll enjoy the experience.  If, for whatever reason, you're not 100% satisfied, I'll buy it back from you; you've got my word on that.  KHÄT is my commitment to those who helped pick me up while I was down, and I know it will remain a trusted alternative for anyone looking to make healthier choices in their basic daily routine.

 

Semper Fidelis,

Luke Gilliland
Founder & CEO

PurPharmX Corp.