Kanna, scientifically known as Sceletium tortuosum, is a succulent plant native to the arid regions of South Africa. For centuries, indigenous communities such as the San and Khoi people traditionally used this plant. They harvested, fermented, and dried the plant material, often chewing it, smoking it, or preparing it as a tea. Its historical applications included alleviating hunger, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation during demanding activities. Kanna was also valued for its role in social and spiritual contexts.
Understanding Kanna’s Effects
Kanna is recognized for its mood-enhancing and stress-reducing properties, offering a subtle shift in mental state rather than a profound alteration of consciousness. Users often report feelings of calmness, contentment, and a reduction in anxiety, accompanied by a mild sense of euphoria, increased self-confidence, and improved focus.
The plant’s effects stem primarily from mesembrine alkaloids, with mesembrine and mesembrenone being particularly significant. These alkaloids interact with brain neurochemistry. One key mechanism involves serotonin reuptake inhibition, which helps keep serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood and well-being, available in the brain for longer periods. Kanna’s compounds also inhibit phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), contributing to potential neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits. Research also suggests an influence on vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), impacting dopamine and serotonin availability.
Onset and Duration of Kanna Effects
The speed at which Kanna’s effects manifest and how long they persist depend significantly on the method of consumption. When taken sublingually (placed under the tongue), effects can begin within 5-15 minutes, peak in 1-2 hours, and last 4-6 hours.
Oral ingestion (capsules or tea) leads to a slower onset of 30-60 minutes, peaks around 1.5-2 hours, and lasts 4-8 hours. Insufflation (snorting) provides the quickest onset, often within minutes, but effects are typically shorter-lived, lasting 2-3 hours. Traditional chewing of the plant material also results in effects lasting 2-3 hours due to slow absorption.
Factors Influencing Kanna’s Effects
Several variables influence the intensity and longevity of Kanna’s effects. Dosage plays a significant role; lower doses (e.g., 25-50 mg of extract) may produce subtle mood elevation and stress reduction, while higher doses (e.g., 100-200 mg or more) can lead to more pronounced relaxation or euphoria.
The method of consumption directly impacts how quickly active compounds are absorbed, affecting onset and duration. Individual physiological factors, such as metabolism, body weight, and personal sensitivity, also contribute to varying experiences. The quality and potency of the Kanna product are important, as extracts vary in active alkaloid concentration, leading to different outcomes even at similar stated dosages.
Safe and Responsible Kanna Use
Using Kanna safely involves understanding appropriate dosages and potential interactions. For beginners, it is advisable to start with a low dose (e.g., 25-50 mg of an extract) and gradually increase to assess individual response, minimizing side effects. Common mild side effects can include headaches, nausea, mild gastrointestinal discomfort, temporary drowsiness, or increased heart rate.
Kanna should be used with caution by individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid its use due to a lack of safety data.
A significant concern involves drug interactions, especially with medications that affect serotonin levels, such as SSRIs, SNRIs, and MAOIs. Combining Kanna with these substances can lead to an excessive accumulation of serotonin, potentially causing serotonin syndrome. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Kanna, particularly if other medications are being taken. Kanna is generally legal in many countries, including most of the United States, but its legal status can vary by region, with Louisiana being a notable exception.