Sceletium tortuosum, commonly known as Kanna, is a succulent plant indigenous to South Africa. This botanical specimen belongs to the Aizoaceae family and thrives in the arid regions of the Western and Northern Cape provinces. The plant features fleshy leaves and small, daisy-like flowers.
Traditional and Modern Applications
For centuries, the indigenous San and Khoikhoi peoples of Southern Africa utilized Sceletium tortuosum in their cultural practices. They traditionally chewed, brewed, or sniffed the fermented plant material to alleviate thirst, combat fatigue during long journeys, and for its mood-altering properties. It was also used in social gatherings and spiritual ceremonies, fostering a sense of connection and well-being.
Today, Sceletium tortuosum is recognized as a dietary supplement. It is often sought for its effects on emotional balance, stress reduction, and to support a calm mood.
How Sceletium Works
The effects of Sceletium tortuosum are attributed to a collection of naturally occurring compounds known as alkaloids, with mesembrine being the most extensively studied and abundant. This primary alkaloid, along with others like mesembrenone and mesembrenol, interacts with the brain’s neurochemical systems.
Mesembrine primarily functions as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI). This mechanism temporarily blocks the reabsorption of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, back into nerve cells. By doing so, it increases the amount of serotonin available in the synaptic cleft, potentially influencing mood and emotional states.
Beyond its SRI activity, mesembrine also acts as a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. PDE4 enzymes are involved in regulating various cellular processes, and their inhibition can lead to increased levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) within cells. This action is thought to contribute to the plant’s influence on cognitive function and may also possess anti-inflammatory properties.
Potential Side Effects and Interactions
While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild and temporary side effects when using Sceletium tortuosum. These can include headaches, slight nausea, or a transient feeling of sedation, particularly at higher doses. These reactions are not severe and tend to resolve on their own.
A concern involves combining Sceletium tortuosum with other substances that affect serotonin levels. It is advised to avoid combining it with prescription antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Combining these substances can lead to serotonin syndrome, a serious condition.
Serotonin syndrome symptoms can range from mild, like tremors and diarrhea, to more concerning manifestations such as confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, and muscle rigidity. In severe cases, it can cause seizures, irregular heartbeat, and loss of consciousness. Avoiding such combinations is important.
Forms and Dosage
Sceletium tortuosum is available in several forms. These include raw fermented or dried plant material, which can be chewed or brewed, and more refined options such as standardized extracts. Zembrin is a well-known example of a patented, standardized Sceletium tortuosum extract.
Consumers can also find it in convenient forms like capsules and tinctures, offering precise dosing. There is no universally established dosage for Sceletium tortuosum due to variations in product concentration and individual sensitivity. It is advisable to begin with the lowest possible dose to assess personal tolerance. Adhering to the specific dosage recommendations provided on the product label is important for safe use.