Exposing Qat Tree Was Bad Journalism

I was appalled to read “Tree Has a Shady Side” (Dec. 16). The whole world knows the effect qat has had on the violence in Somalia. Indeed, much of the violence and suffering in this country are due to the misuse of drugs, all of which are costly.

Now, thanks to this article, drug abusers know where to find a cheap high. In fact it is free. All abusers have to do is pick the leaves of the qat tree (it grows wild in Laguna Beach)--it can be easily identified by excellent close-up photography--and then follow the specific instructions for its use in the article.

It may be news that the qat tree grows right here in Southern California, but when such news has such a destructive potential, I find it irresponsible journalism.

ALICE SCHUREMAN

Los Alamitos