What is Kanna exactly?
Kanna, also known as Sceletium tortuosum, comes from South Africa. The name Kanna literally means something you chew, as this is how it was traditionally consumed. It is traditionally known as a pscyhoactive herb, but it is not hallucinogenic or habit-forming, according to examine.com. While the exact mechanism is unknown due to the lack of official research, it is known to influence the amygdala which is responsible for emotional processing. This is why it has shown to be useful for anxiety and depression especially. There is some anecdotal evidence that it could be useful for PTSD as well.
Clinical psychologist Vincenzo Sinisi explains ,”The Khoisan populated parts of what is now South Africa even before the African people considered indigenous to the region today did.”Being from South Africa himself, Sinisi is familiar with kanna’s benefits through his own use and reports from patients. “When it works, it works without question,” Sinisi says. “Roughly two hours after consumption, people feel markedly calmer, more content, and happier. The world feels like all is as it should be, and life seems worthwhile.”
It could even have potential to treat Alzheimers disease. According to the National Library of Medicine, PDE4 inhibition could be an effective treatment in this age-related neurodegenerative disease.” Phosphodiesterase-4 regulates the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and cells. Inflammation in Alzheimer’s is now thought to be a central pathology of this disease. It likely plays a role in the onset and pregression of AD (Alzheimer’s disease).
Have they done any studies on this plant?
There have been limited studies done on this natural medicine. The National Library of Medicine posted this study last year. Kanna, an effective indigenous medication, “has gained strong global attraction and reputation due to its capabilities to promote a sense of well-being by relieving stress with calming effects.” Kanna boosts seratonin and causes it to release. This helps with a variety of ailments.
To understand why Kanna is being called “nature’s MDMA (ecstasy)” it is important to understand how it works. The National Institute for Drug Abuse explains it most clearly, here. “MDMA affects the brain by increasing the activity of at least three neurotransmitters (the chemical messengers of brain cells): serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine”. It enhances the release of these neurotransmitters, resulting in increased levels in the brain. Seratonin, in particular, is known as the “feel good” chemical, its responsible for most of our happiness.
This is why it is an excellent treatment for emotional disorders including depression and anxiety. It can regulate mood, sleep, and even pain levels. Taking Kanna on a regular basis can have oppositional effects however. Therefore, it should be microdosed daily OR taken in larger quantities only every few months. Taken in large quantities on a daily or regular basis can lead to depressed mood, paranoia, and memory impairment to name a few.
What could be some adverse effects?
The side effects of kanna are very similar to those of MDMA, although on a much smaller scale since this is a natural substance from a plant and MDMA is artificially made. Dehydration could be an issue so be sure to stay hydrated! It can also cause jaw clenching, headaches, nausea, lack of appetite, hot flashes/chills, and restless legs, Side effects tend to be mild, especially when microdosing. For microdosing, you would want to take mg a day 25-50mg a day, every day. For a more intense experience, take 50-100mg every 20 minutes for 2 hours. Cannabis will potentiate Kanna, as well.
Kanna is contraindicated for pregnanat and nursing mothers. If you have adverse effects, consult a physician. There is a brand name that your doctor might be familiar with and that is Zembrin. Kanna could interact with depressant medication especially. Use caution if you are taking sedatives (CNS depressants) like clonazepam, lorazapam, zolpidem, phenobarbitol, etc, according to WebMD. On WebMD, there are mixed reviews, but with all sub.”stances we always recommend to start slow. You can always take more, but you can’t take less! Do NOT mix with any other substances, especially illegal narcotic drugs. Dr. Wasserman cautions against mixing Kanna with MAO inhibitors, SSRI medications, or MDMA.
What can I expect?
While Sinisi says, “Many people who use MDMA as a party drug will be disappointed by the subtlety of kanna’s effect,” GP Monika Wasserman believes it could be much more useful. “I strongly support that this supplement is being used as an alternative to other party drugs,” Wassermann says. “People are likely to experience similar euphoria effects with no adverse effects on their health, hence it’s safer.” While Kanna isn’t addictive, individuals that have a history of drug abuse should be wary of triggering drug seeking behavior.
Hemp Trails CBD/Molly Jane is offering Kanna in a 6 pack of gummies. It can be microdosed at 1/2 or 1 a day, or one can take 1 every 20 minutes until the package is gone for a full experience.
