Kanna Plant Effects, Uses, Dosages & Where to Buy

Kanna is called Sceletium tortuosum in botany. It has been used traditionally as a psychoactive herb chewed before hunting or other activities that required enhanced cognition.

It is currently used as a mood enhancing herbal extract with positive effects for managing stress, promoting a calm state of mind and inducing sleep.

This supplement is also used to support relief from temporary aches and pains. A proprietary form of Kanna extract sold under the name Zembrin is promoted for supporting the neural circuits involved in processing emotions.

There has been little clinical research on kanna and its current uses as a dietary supplement are largely based on history and anecdote. [1] Some preliminary studies do suggest a benefit for anxiousness, cognition and feelings of wellbeing.

This article reviews the uses, modes of action, possible benefits, and safety of kanna. Different ways to administer it and some commonly-recommended dosages are also covered.

Kanna

Herbal Extract

Mood

Calm

Sleep

How It Works:

• Exhibits anxiolytic effects
• Used traditionally for relaxation
• Contains mesembrine alkaloids with weak sedative effects

Dosage:

No standardized dosage

Safety:

Insufficient research available

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Kanna Overview

Sceletium tortuosum or kanna is a succulent plant that is indigenous to South Africa. There, it is called kauwgoed which means “to be chewed”.

The Sceletium kanna plant is a member of the Aizoaceae family. It has been used traditionally for mood-enhancing and stress-coping effects.

Today, the plant is sometimes abused as a natural and legal recreational drug. It is often used with cannabis to strengthen the high. This use is strongly cautioned against due to insufficient research regarding the safety of the plant.

Kanna is not known to be addictive or hallucinogenic and seems well-tolerated in healthy people. However, there may be a greater risk of adverse effects if it is used in high dosages or combined with cannabis.

Although the limited amount of available evidence does not suggest any significant cognitive benefits of kanna, it does show some promise for reducing “state” anxiety.

Sceletium tortuosum may also have some antidepressant effects, but more research is needed to know for sure.

Plant Description

Sceletium comes from the Greek word for skeleton, referring to the skeleton-like network formed by the plant’s withered leaves after they are dried.

Kanna is a succulent that develops small white petals and serves as an effective ground cover. It is classified as a decumbent or climbing subshrub. The plant features:

• Slender, weak branches that become tougher with age;
• White/pink/yellow flowers that are 2-4 cm in diameter;
• 4-6 lightweight locular fruits that are wind-dispersed;

The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) states that the kanna plant is also called Canna, Channa, Kougoed, Kauwgoed, Poudre de Sceletium, Racine de Kanna, and Racine de Sceletium. [2]

Uses for Kannas

Kanna has a long history of medicinal use in South Africa. It has been used to induce euphoria, brighten the mood, induce relaxation, relieve abdominal pain, and decreased appetite.

Kanna may also be helpful for reducing pain, treating colic, and helping to overcome alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Some users state that this herb helps them better manage their symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).

These uses of kanna have not been approved by the FDA. This herbal extract is not an approved drug for the treatment of any medical conditions.

The traditional way to use kanna was to chew on the fermented roots and leaves. Hunters and gatherers would chew the plant before engaging in their duties to make them calmer and reduce feelings of anxiousness.

It was described as alleviating anxious thoughts without impairing cognitive function.

After chewing the plant, the residue would then be smoked, insufflated or used as snuff. Extracts from this plant are also made into a tea or tincture.

Kanna powder and capsule supplements are now available from various online suppliers. Many users claim that these products help them feel less anxious or depressed. Others claim that they increase their overall sense of well-being.

Researchers are interested in studying the effects of kanna for pain relief, depression and anxiety. Some preliminary studies have been conducted and some mechanism of action for this plant have been identified.

However, the way it works is not yet well-defined. Double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials are needed to understand how kanna works inside the human body and whether it is effective for any therapeutic uses.

How Kanna Works in the Brain

Researchers have identified several possible modes of action associated with kanna plant extracts. Its main bioactive chemical compounds are called mesembrine alkaloids.

There are at least 9 different mesembrine alkaloids in kanna roots and leaves. They range in concentration between 0.2%-1.5%.

These indole alkaloids include: [3]

• 4′-O-demethylmesembrenol;
• Demethylmesembranol;
• Mesembrenone;
• Mesembrenine;
• Mesembrenol;
• Mesembranol;
• Tortuosamine;
• Mesembrine;

Some of the alkaloids in kanna might have psychoactive properties but more research is needed to be sure. Currently, these effects are not well-defined.

When kanna is fermented, its mesembrine content is converted into Delta-7-mesembrenone. The mesembrine alkaloids are also believed to have mild narcotic effects.

Researchers think that kanna affects a central brain region called the amygdala which is known to be involved with emotional processing.

This plant is also known to alter levels of two important proteins found in the amygdala: the serotonin transporter protein and an enzyme called PDE4 (phosphodiesterase-4).

The serotonin transporter protein is commonly called SERT or 5-HTT. It is a type of monoamine protein.

Various kanna alkaloids serve as SRIs (serotonin reuptake inhibitors). This means they stop available serotonin from decomposing inside the brain.

After serotonin is released from a neuron receptor, the neurotransmitter gets taken back up into the pre-synaptic neuron where it is metabolized into other chemicals.

Using kanna blocks the re-uptake of this neurotransmitter which means that it remains active within the synaptic cleft for a longer period of time and has more opportunity to bind to post-synaptic neurons.

This results in greater activation of serotonin receptors even if the same amount of the neurotransmitter is released from a neuron. By increasing serotonergic signaling in the brain, this herb may promote relaxation and feelings of contentment.

Most prescription antidepressants work on similar pathways in the brain. By modifying neurotransmitter activity within the serotonin system, there can be significant changes in neurological functioning and mood regulation.

A specific proprietary Sceletium tortuosum extract called Zembrin has been studied in humans in several trials. Dosages of 25 mg and 50 mg have been administered in some preclinical studies.

In one study, 16 health participants were given a single 25 mg dose of Zembrin and were evaluated during a perceptual-load and an emotion-matching task. Use of this supplement reduced amygdala reactivity to fearful faces and decreased couplin with the hypothalamus.

This suggests that kanna reduces the response of the ‘threat circuitry’ in the brain by attenuating subcortical threat reactions. The results of this study provided supporting evident that this herb acts as a 5-HT reuptake inhibitor and PDE4 inhibitor.

The researchers also stated that Zembrin stimulates the release of monoamines. This requires more clinical study to understand how it could influence mood and behavior.

NMCD states that in a 3-arm, double-blind placebo-controlled, randomized study, Zembrin was shown to have benefits for emotional and cognitive processing. Compared to a placebo, it “enhanced the activity of electric circuits of the brain during tasks”.

In patients between 50-80 years of age, the Zembrin brand of kanna extract had a positive dose-dependent effect on cognition, mood, anxiety, and stress.

In animal studies, kanna extracts have exhibited mild anti-anxiety effects as well as sedative effects. In one in vitro study, it was also observed to have anti-cancer effects.

Some animal studies show that kanna extract can increased levels of inflammatory markers like:

• IL-1-beta (interleukin 1-beta);
• C-reactive Protein;
• Prostaglandin E2;

An increase in these proinflammatory proteins could indicate that parts of the kanna plant are not well-tolerated in the body. More research is needed to evaluate the proinflammatory effects of the herb.

Scientists continue researching the kanna plant to determine its mechanisms of action and possible health benefits as well as health risks in humans.

Kanna Health Benefits

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, there is insufficient research available to rate the effectiveness of kanna for therapeutic use.

While this herb does have a number of purported health benefits and common uses, it has not received significant research attention in humans so far.

This herb has a long-recorded history as a natural herbal medicine. Based on anecdotal reports, this plant is said to: [4]

• Decrease stress, anxiety, and tension;
• Suppress the appetite;
• Elevate the mood;
• Induce euphoria;

Kanna is also described as causing CNS (central nervous system) stimulation in lower doses while causing sedation in large doses.

Some users report that with a small dose of kanna, they are able to reflect inwardly and experience a state of meditative tranquility. Others report an exaggerated sense of awe in nature.

Other users state that taking kanna supplements helps them overcome feelings of insecurity and inhibitions. Many users report that they are better able to disengage from troubling or stressful situations.

Some people state that kanna powder and capsules make them feel more confident in social situations. Others say it makes their skin more sensitive and increases sexual gratification.

Some other reported beneficial effects of kanna include:

• Suppresses the effects of tobacco and the desire for nicotine;
• Enhanced focus and thinking abilities;
• Mind and muscle relaxation;
• Increased libido (sex drive);
• Desire to dance and sing;
• Tingling sensations;
• Increased energy;

Kanna root and leaf is said to strengthen the effects of both cannabis and alcohol. At high dosages or when combined with psychoactive substances, some users report mild hallucinations and changes in color perception.

Other plants that are commonly used with kanna include Wild Dagga, Damiana, Ginseng, Blue Lotus Flowers, and Tongkat Ali.

Before taking this plant extract for any specific health goals, it is important to consult with a doctor to determine whether it is appropriate for you.

Kanna Supplements

NMCD states that there are currently seventy-five different commercial products available that contain Sceletium. [2]

Some of these include Kanna 5:1 Extract Powder, Kanna Whole White Leaf, 400 mg Kanna Capsules, Dagga Pharma Kanna Resin 25X, and various C4 pre-workout formulas from Cellucor.

Look for Sceletium products that are certified to be pure and free of contaminants or toxins. Store according to package directions or in a cool, dark, dry, sealed place.

On Amazon, you can buy Organic Cup of Sunchine Kanna Tea sold by Traditional Medicinals. You can also buy a dietary supplement called “Kanna Bliss” sold by purelife.

Other products that contain the proprietary Zembrin extract as the active ingredient include Nature’s Sunshine Nutri-Calm Tablets and Procera Mood.

Kanna Dosages

Kanna is a natural plant extract and is not regulated by the FDA. There are no standard dosage guidelines for this dietary supplement. It is recommended to consult with a doctor to determine the right dosage for you.

Based on traditional use of this plant, it is typically used at a daily dose between 500-1500 mg of the processed roots, stems or leaves.

According to the African Herbal Pharmacopoeia, kanna alkaloids should be taken in daily doses between 2-12 mg.

Different kanna supplements will contain different amounts of bioactive alkaloids. According to some sources, the plant is composed of 0.3% to 1.5% alkaloids.

The experience of taking this herb a is said to depend on the environment it is consumed in. Sometimes the herb has more stimulant effects and sometimes it had more relaxing effects.

Users seem to agree that kanna is best used when already engaging in or if you are about to engage in an activity that you enjoy.

Other factors that can affect the kanna experience are foods eaten recently, time of day, other substances taken, weight, age, gender, and hydration level.

People with serious depression should not self-medicate with kanna supplements without first discussing it with their doctors.

Generally, kanna is recommended for use in making tea, snuff, or smoking in serving sizes between 50-150 mg.

Snuffing is anecdotally said to be the method that causes the most pronounced effects. If using powdered kanna as snuff, 20 mg is said to be enough for most users. The effects are said to come on quickly when it is used inside the lip as snuff.

The effects of kanna are said to last between 1-2 hours in most users, with a tapering effect beginning about halfway through.

Kanna tea should be consumed on an empty stomach to maximize and expedite its effects. Many users add honey, lemon, or other flavor enhancers.

Kanna Safety and Side Effects

There is insufficient research available to determine the safety of this herb. It has a long history of traditional use and is reported to be well tolerated if taken appropriately, but adverse effects can occur.

Although large doses of kanna are said by many users to be euphoric, this plant has not been shown to be hallucinogenic. This is contrary to what several online sources claim.

NMCD reports that chewing kanna root, stem, or leaf can cause a headache, restlessness, or depression. [2]

Chewing fermented kanna plant can theoretically cause intoxication. Heavy use of unfermented extracts may also cause an effect similar to drunkenness.

The proprietary extract called Zembrin has been evaluated for safety in two separate randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled, parallel-group studies.

The most common side effect reported was a headache. Upper respiratory tract infection and abdominal pain also occurred more often in kanna subjects than in placebo subjects.

According to the Wikipedia article on this herb, “Overall, the extract was well tolerated and significantly improved cognitive set flexibility, executive function, mood, and sleep.” [1]

Kanna supplements might also cause elevated blood pressure, nausea, or heart palpitations is some users. Some users have also reported soft or loose stools, hazy sounds and colors, dry mouth, and drowsiness.

Taking this product late in the afternoon might cause insomnia at night for some people. Conversely, others report being able to sleep more soundly after using the herb.

Snorting kanna powder is not recommended as it can irritate or damage the mucous membranes in the nasal passages and sinuses.

Using this herbal supplement regularly or long-term can lead to tolerance. Kanna is not said to be addictive and withdrawal symptoms have not been reported.

Kanna Interactions

When using this plant extract, there is a potential for drug interactions, including: [2]

• SNRIs (serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors);
• Herbs and supplements with sedative effects;
• SSRIs (serotonin specific reuptake inhibitors);
• MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors);
• CNS Depressants;
• Marijuana;
• Alcohol;

Be careful when combining Kanna extract or Sceletium tortuosum supplements with other herbs and medications. Consult with a doctor to determine whether this product is safe for you to take.

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