Kanna is a succulent plant traditionally used in South Africa. Valued for its unique properties that affect mood and mental state, this botanical is gaining attention in modern wellness circles. Kanna is now widely available in various forms across the globe, leading to questions about its effects, safety, and proper use.
Botanical Identity and Historical Context
The plant known as Kanna is scientifically identified as Sceletium tortuosum, a low-growing succulent native to the dry regions of South Africa’s Cape Provinces. Historically, this species was one of several plants referred to by the Khoisan and San peoples as “kougoed,” which translates to “something to chew” or “chewable thing.”
The traditional use of Kanna by these indigenous groups dates back centuries, with early written accounts appearing as far back as 1662. The plant material was prepared by being dried and often fermented before being chewed, smoked, or used as a snuff. This preparation served social, spiritual, and medicinal purposes, including relieving thirst, hunger, and fatigue, and promoting well-being.
How Kanna Interacts with the Body
The effects of Kanna are primarily due to a group of active compounds known as mesembrine alkaloids, which are concentrated in the plant’s leaves and stems. The four main alkaloids are mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembrenol, and mesembranol. Mesembrine is typically the most abundant and potent of these compounds, giving the plant its characteristic pharmacological profile.
The chief mechanism of action for the mesembrine alkaloids is their activity as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs). This blocks the reabsorption of the neurotransmitter serotonin back into the nerve cell, allowing it to remain active in the synaptic cleft longer.
The alkaloids also exhibit a secondary mechanism by acting as weak inhibitors of the enzyme phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4). PDE4 inhibition is associated with positive cognitive effects like enhanced focus, improved processing speed, and sustained attention. This dual action provides a unique combination of mood support and cognitive enhancement.
Reported Effects and Modern Consumption Methods
Users of Kanna commonly report a range of subjective effects, primarily centered on mood alteration and stress relief. The most frequently described effects include a noticeable elevation in mood, a reduction in anxiety, and a general sense of well-being. Some individuals also experience a mild euphoria, increased sociability, and enhanced mental clarity.
The final effect experienced can depend significantly on the amount consumed, with lower doses generally producing more stimulating outcomes. These lower amounts can function as a subtle pick-me-up, sharpening focus and lifting spirits. In contrast, higher doses tend to shift the experience toward greater relaxation and can even lead to sedative effects.
Modern consumption methods have expanded far beyond the traditional chewing or smoking of the fermented plant material. Today, Kanna is widely available as concentrated extracts, which are often standardized to contain a consistent level of active alkaloids. These extracts are commonly found in capsules, tinctures, and powders, allowing for more precise and predictable serving sizes. Other popular forms include:
- Edible products like gummies and chocolates.
- Herbal teas.
- Products designed for vaping.
- Products designed for use as a snuff.
Safety Considerations and Current Legal Status
Kanna is generally considered safe for healthy adults when consumed responsibly and in moderation. Some users may experience mild side effects, including headache, nausea, gastrointestinal upset, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Starting with a low amount and gradually increasing it is recommended to gauge personal tolerance.
A serious safety concern is the potential for dangerous drug interactions, particularly with other substances that affect the serotonin system. Because Kanna acts as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, combining it with pharmaceutical antidepressants, such as SSRIs or MAOIs, is highly discouraged. This combination can potentially lead to a rare but life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome, which is characterized by excessive serotonin activity.
The legal status of Kanna varies globally, but it is generally not classified as a controlled substance in the United States. In the U.S., Kanna is most often sold as a dietary supplement or herbal remedy, making it legally accessible for purchase and consumption at the federal level. However, consumers should be aware that regulations can differ by country or local jurisdiction, and the lack of comprehensive regulation means product quality can vary.