What Is Kanna?
Kanna is the common name for Sceletium tortuosum, a succulent plant native to southern Africa. It is also sometimes called kougoed, an Afrikaans word that roughly translates to “something to chew.”
Traditionally, kanna plant material was prepared in several ways, including chewing, fermenting, drying, smoking, or brewing it as a tea. Historical accounts associate kanna with social rituals and its use during physically or emotionally demanding situations.
Modern kanna products generally use concentrated plant extracts rather than raw plant material. These extracts can contain much higher and more consistent levels of active alkaloids, which means modern products may feel considerably stronger than a traditional tea or a small amount of dried plant.
What Are Kanna Alkaloids?
Alkaloids are naturally occurring plant compounds that can interact with biological systems. Caffeine, nicotine, and several compounds found in medicinal plants are all examples of alkaloids.
Kanna contains a distinctive group called mesembrine-type alkaloids. The exact concentration and ratio of these compounds can vary depending on the plant genetics, growing conditions, harvest timing, processing method, and final extract.
Mesembrine
Mesembrine is one of kanna’s best-known alkaloids. Laboratory research suggests that it interacts with pathways involved in serotonin signaling, particularly the serotonin transporter.
Because serotonin plays a role in mood, emotional processing, and social behavior, researchers believe this interaction may help explain why kanna is commonly associated with an uplifted or emotionally open experience.
However, describing mesembrine as affecting serotonin does not mean kanna should be treated like an antidepressant or used to manage a medical condition. Kanna supplements have not been proven to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent mood disorders.
Mesembrenone
Mesembrenone is another important kanna alkaloid. It has been studied for potential activity involving both serotonin reuptake and an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-4, commonly shortened to PDE4.
PDE4 is involved in cellular signaling and cognitive processes. Researchers have proposed that the combined activity of kanna alkaloids may contribute to the plant’s complex effects rather than one isolated compound being responsible for the entire experience.
Mesembrenol and Other Alkaloids
Kanna can also contain mesembrenol, mesembranol, tortuosamine, and related compounds. Researchers have identified numerous alkaloids within Sceletium plants, although many have not been studied as thoroughly as mesembrine and mesembrenone.
A review focused specifically on mesembrine alkaloids concluded that kanna’s two best-known compounds are still being characterized and that much of their pharmacology remains under investigation.
Why Alkaloid Ratios Matter
Two kanna products can contain the same stated amount of extract and still produce different experiences.
One extract may be higher in mesembrine, while another may contain a broader ratio of mesembrine, mesembrenone, and related compounds. The label might also list the milligrams of total kanna extract without identifying the extract’s total alkaloid percentage.
What Does Kanna Feel Like?
Kanna experiences vary, but people commonly describe effects such as:
- A brighter or more uplifted mood
- Increased social interest or openness
- A warm, pleasant, or euphoric feeling
- Greater appreciation of music, conversation, or surroundings
- Calm energy
- Mental clarity or present-moment awareness
- Relaxation without necessarily feeling heavily sedated
Kanna can be psychoactive, meaning it can noticeably affect how a person feels, thinks, or experiences their surroundings. It does not contain THC, but stronger kanna products should not automatically be considered non-intoxicating simply because they are THC-free.
The effects may also change with the serving size. A lower serving may feel subtle and functional, while a larger serving could feel more euphoric, stimulating, sedating, or uncomfortable.
Current human research remains limited. A small number of studies have investigated standardized kanna extracts for mood, stress, sleep, and cognitive performance, but these studies have generally been short and involved relatively few participants. Results from one standardized extract also cannot automatically be applied to every kanna product on the market.
How Does Kanna Work?
Scientists do not yet have a complete explanation for kanna’s effects. Current research suggests that multiple alkaloids and biological pathways may be involved.
Serotonin Signaling
Some kanna alkaloids have demonstrated serotonin reuptake-inhibiting activity in laboratory research. In simplified terms, serotonin reuptake is the process through which serotonin is cleared from the space between nerve cells.
Influencing this process may help explain kanna’s potential effects on mood and emotional perception. However, this mechanism also creates important safety considerations for anyone taking medications or supplements that affect serotonin.
PDE4 Activity
Certain kanna extracts and alkaloids have also demonstrated PDE4-inhibiting activity. PDE4 helps regulate signaling molecules inside cells and has been studied in connection with cognition, inflammation, and neurological activity.
This does not mean kanna has been clinically proven to improve cognition or treat inflammation. It means researchers have identified a potential biological pathway that may contribute to the plant’s effects.
How to Use Kanna Responsibly
Kanna products can vary dramatically in strength. Someone who has tried a mild kanna tea should not assume that a concentrated gummy, tablet, or extract will feel the same.
Start Low and Go Slow
Begin with the lowest suggested serving on the product label. Do not take additional servings immediately because the effects are not as strong as expected.
Gummies and other oral products need time to be digested. Taking more too quickly can result in an unexpectedly intense experience once the servings begin working together.
Consider the Complete Formula
Many kanna products contain additional active ingredients. These may include caffeine, L-theanine, L-tyrosine, vitamins, cannabinoids, or other botanicals.
Caffeine can make the experience feel more stimulating. Someone who is sensitive to caffeine should review the label carefully and avoid combining a caffeinated kanna product with coffee, energy drinks, or other stimulants.
Choose the Right Setting
Try a new kanna product in a comfortable and familiar environment. Avoid driving, operating equipment, or taking part in safety-sensitive work until you understand how the product affects you.
Kanna should also be kept securely away from children and pets.
Can Kanna Be Combined With Medications?
Kanna should not be casually combined with medications or supplements that affect serotonin.
This is particularly important for people taking:
- SSRIs
- SNRIs
- MAO inhibitors
- Certain migraine medications
- Prescription stimulants
- Other serotonergic drugs or supplements
Because kanna alkaloids may influence serotonin pathways, combining them with serotonergic substances could increase the risk of adverse effects. Anyone taking prescription medication should consult a licensed healthcare provider or pharmacist before using kanna.
Consumers should also be cautious about mixing kanna with alcohol, cannabis, sedatives, stimulants, or other psychoactive products. Combining substances can make the overall effects less predictable.
Common Questions About Kanna
Is Kanna the Same as Cannabis?
No. Kanna and cannabis are completely different plants.
Kanna does not naturally contain THC or CBD. Its primary active compounds are mesembrine-type alkaloids rather than cannabinoids.
However, both plants can be psychoactive, and some products may combine kanna with cannabinoids. Always read the full ingredient label.
Does Kanna Get You High?
Kanna can create psychoactive effects, especially in concentrated or high-strength products. People may describe the experience as uplifting, euphoric, stimulating, relaxing, socially enhancing, or emotionally warm.
The intensity depends on the extract, alkaloid concentration, serving size, added ingredients, tolerance, and individual sensitivity.
Is Kanna a Stimulant or a Relaxant?
It may feel like either—or a combination of both.
Some people report calm energy and social stimulation, while others experience relaxation or drowsiness. Products containing caffeine or other energizing ingredients are more likely to feel stimulating than kanna-only formulas.
Is Kanna an Antidepressant?
Kanna should not be described or used as an antidepressant.
Researchers have investigated its interaction with pathways involved in mood, but current evidence is not strong enough to establish kanna as a treatment for depression, anxiety, or another mental-health condition.
How Long Does Kanna Take to Work?
The onset depends on the product format, serving size, whether the person has eaten, and individual metabolism.
Oral products such as gummies generally take longer to feel than products absorbed through the mouth. Waiting 60-90 minutes to feel the effects is usually the standard for edible products. Consumers should follow the product directions and allow enough time before considering another serving.
Where to Find Kanna Products
Asheville Dispensary carries kanna products designed for customers looking for an uplifting, social, and functional botanical experience.
Our SOHI Kanna Gummies – Mango Dream contain 60 milligrams of kanna extract per two-gummy serving, along with L-tyrosine, L-theanine, vitamin B12, and caffeine from green tea.
Customers can also explore SOHI Kanna Gummies – Watermelon Wave for the same functional formula in a refreshing watermelon flavor.
Customers can also try SOHI Social Energy 80mg Kanna Shots with Caffeine, Alpha GPC and vitamins.
If you are looking for an extra-strength experience, try the Ferris Wheel Kanna Products. Ingredients include 40mg per Gummy of a Proprietary Adaptogenic-Nootropic Blend: Kanna Extract, Hydro Caffeine (extra concentrated), L-Arginine, Beta-Alanine, Hydro L-Theanine, Hydro Piperine, Choline, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamins B1, B2, and B12.
These gummies contain kanna alongside other active ingredients, so first-time customers should begin with one or ½ a gummy rather than assuming a full serving will be appropriate for their tolerance.
Customers who are sensitive to caffeine or on any other medications should be cautioned before using the Ferris Wheel Products. Hydro Caffeine is extra concentrated and may cause jitters. Start low and go slow.
Kanna products may be available online or at select Asheville Dispensary locations. Inventory can change, so check the online product listing or contact your nearest store before visiting.
Final Thoughts: Kanna Is More Than a Trend
Kanna is a fascinating South African botanical with a rich traditional history and a complex group of active alkaloids. Compounds such as mesembrine and mesembrenone may help explain why kanna is often associated with uplifting, social, calming, or euphoric experiences.
At the same time, kanna research is still developing. Product strength and alkaloid composition can vary, and concentrated formulas may be much more powerful than consumers expect.
Choose products with transparent labels, pay attention to every active ingredient, and always start low and go slow. Most importantly, speak with a licensed healthcare provider before using kanna if you take medication or have questions about whether it is appropriate for you.
Ready to explore kanna? Browse Asheville Dispensary’s kanna gummies online or visit one of our retail locations for responsible product education and personalized guidance.
References
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8124331/
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting a new wellness routine, particularly if you take prescription medication.
