Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum)

Introduction

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant native to South Africa, traditionally used by indigenous Khoisan people for its mood-enhancing and anxiolytic effects. Known for its ability to promote relaxation, social connectivity, and mild euphoria, Kanna has gained popularity as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical antidepressants and anxiolytics. Modern herbalists value it for its serotonin-reuptake inhibiting properties, making it a sought-after botanical for stress relief and mental well-being.

Botanical Information

• Scientific Name: Sceletium tortuosum
• Common Names: Kanna, Channa, Kougoed (meaning "chewable thing" in Afrikaans)
• Family: Aizoaceae (Ice Plant Family)
• Habitat: Indigenous to South Africa, thriving in arid, sandy regions
• Appearance: A low-growing succulent with fleshy green leaves and small, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, pink, or white

History and Culture

Kanna has been used for centuries by the Khoisan people of South Africa for stress relief, mood enhancement, and as a social and spiritual aid. Traditionally, the plant was fermented and chewed to induce relaxation and mental clarity. Dutch settlers in the 17th century documented its use, noting its calming effects and potential as a natural anti-depressant.

In modern times, Kanna has gained recognition as a natural mood booster and cognitive enhancer, widely used in alternative medicine and nootropic supplements.

Chemistry

Kanna contains several alkaloids that contribute to its mood enhancing and medicinal effects:

• Mesembrine – A serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI), promoting mood elevation and stress reduction
• Mesembrenone – Acts as a PDE4 inhibitor, which may enhance cognitive function and reduce inflammation
• Mesembrenol & Tortuosamine – Additional alkaloids thought to contribute to Kanna’s relaxing and anxiolytic effects

Traditional Usage

Kanna has been consumed in various forms throughout history:

• Chewing (Traditional Method): Fermented leaves and stems were chewed for sustained effects
• Snuff (Nasal Inhalation): Dried and powdered Kanna was inhaled for faster onset of euphoria and clarity
• Tea and Infusions: Brewed into a tea for a mild, calming effect
• Smoking or Vaporizing: Dried Kanna can be smoked alone or blended with other herbs for relaxation
• Tinctures & Extracts: Modern methods extract the active alkaloids for standardized potency

Medicinal Use

Scientific and anecdotal evidence suggests several therapeutic benefits of Kanna:

• Antidepressant Properties: Acts as a natural serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SRI), helping to alleviate mild to moderate depression
• Anxiolytic (Anti-Anxiety) Effects: Promotes relaxation and reduces social anxiety without sedation
• Cognitive Enhancement: May improve focus, mental clarity, and stress resilience
• Pain Relief: Traditionally used as a mild analgesic
• Appetite Suppression: Some users report reduced cravings and emotional eating

Effects

The effects of Kanna depend on the dose and method of consumption:

• Low Doses: Stress relief, relaxation, stimulation, increased sociability
• Moderate Doses: Mood enhancement, mild euphoria, improved focus
• High Doses: Deep relaxation, stronger euphoria, and potential sedation

Combinations

Kanna can be combined with other herbs for enhanced effects:

• With Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea): For a balanced euphoric and calming experience
• With Kra Thum Khok (Mitragyna hirsuta): To enhance relaxation and mood (use cautiously)
• With Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): For additional stress resilience and anxiety relief
• With Damiana (Turnera diffusa): To enhance mood and aphrodisiac properties

Warnings

While Kanna is generally well tolerated, precautions should be taken:

• Avoid high doses to prevent nausea, dizziness, or excessive sedation
• Do not mix with pharmaceutical antidepressants (SSRIs, MAOIs, or other SRIs) due to potential serotonin syndrome
• Not recommended for individuals with heart conditions or low blood pressure
• Use caution if pregnant or breastfeeding

References

Erowid Kanna Vault