Kanna (aka Kougoed or Sceletium) is a succulent plant from South Africa that has been used for centuries for its mood-enhancing effects. The dried and fermented plant material was traditionally chewed as a ‘quid’, smoked or used as snuff. It can also be brewed as a tea. You may also wish to take a kanna supplement.
The mood-elevating action of sceletium is caused by a number of alkaloids including mesembrine, mesembrenone and tortuosamine which interact with the brain’s dopamine and serotonin receptors. Mesembrine is a major alkaloid present in Sceletium. Mesembrine has been demonstrated to be a potent serotonin-uptake inhibitor (SRI). SRIs are most often used as antidepressants, as they increase the extracellular concentrations of serotonin (the ‘happy hormone’).
Some other kanna benefits: Smoking or chewing Kanna gives a buzzy euphoric feeling, which gently fades into relaxation. Brewed as a tea it uplifts mood, relaxes stress and anxiety. According to anecdotal reports, it can potentiate the effects of other substances.
Kanna extract is being used by some psychiatrists, psychologists and doctors with excellent results to treat anxiety and depression. It may also improve cognitive function.
