The Science
A Plant for
the Present
Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant traditionally used to promote emotional balance, cognitive clarity, and a healthy stress response.
Used for centuries by the San and Khoikhoi peoples of South Africa, Kanna contains naturally occurring alkaloids that interact with key neurotransmitter systems. Its traditional uses include easing tension, supporting social ease, and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
years of use
Ancient Wisdom, Modern Interest
Kanna's active alkaloids interact with serotonin, PDE4, and other neurological pathways — making it a subject of growing scientific interest for mood, cognition, and stress response.
Sceletium tortuosum — an area of active research
The History
Kanna's Journey
Indigenous Origins
The San and Khoikhoi peoples of South Africa used Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) traditionally to support emotional balance and resilience. It was chewed, smoked, or brewed as tea — and played a meaningful role in social and spiritual life.
First Written Account
Jan van Riebeeck recorded the first written account of Kanna's use. European settlers documented the plant and its traditional applications, though broader scientific study wouldn't begin for centuries.
Scientific Discovery
Modern researchers began studying Kanna's alkaloid profile. Studies identified mesembrine as the primary active compound and characterized its interactions with serotonin transporters and PDE4 enzymes.
Modern Application
AkinKanna delivers Kanna via sublingual strips — designed for faster absorption through the mucosal membrane — bringing an ancient plant into the rhythm of modern life.
How It Works
Kanna's Chemistry
Kanna contains more than 25 identified alkaloids. Research has focused on how these compounds interact with neurotransmitter systems in the brain.
Serotonin Transporter
SERT & VMAT2
Kanna's primary mechanism involves downregulating the serotonin transporter (SERT) and upregulating vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT2), which promotes monoamine release. This dual action is believed to support mood balance.
PDE4 Inhibition
Phosphodiesterase 4
Mesembrine and mesembrenone have been shown to exhibit PDE4 inhibitory activity in laboratory studies. PDE4 inhibition is an area of research interest related to cognition and inflammatory response.
CB1 Receptor Activity
Cannabinoid System
Research indicates that fermented Kanna extracts exhibit synergistic CB1 receptor inhibiting activity among their alkaloids — an effect observed to be stronger than that of mesembrine alone.
Additional Pathways
AChE & MAO-A
Kanna also shows mild inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A), suggesting multiple pathways through which it may influence neurological function.
The Compounds
Key Alkaloids
Primary Active Alkaloid
The most abundant and well-studied alkaloid in Kanna. Laboratory studies show it acts as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor and PDE4 inhibitor. It is considered the primary driver of Kanna's mood-related research interest.
Secondary Alkaloid
Also demonstrates serotonin reuptake inhibition and PDE4 inhibitory properties in laboratory models. Mesembrenone is formed when mesembrine is exposed to sunlight and aqueous conditions during traditional fermentation.
Supporting Alkaloid
Present in varying quantities depending on the plant's geographic origin and chemotype. Along with mesembrine and mesembrenone, mesembrenol is used as a marker compound for quality control of Kanna products.
Minor Alkaloid
A less-characterized alkaloid in Kanna's profile. It belongs to its own structural class distinct from the mesembrine-type alkaloids and is part of the plant's complex phytochemical makeup.
Delivery Method
Why Sublingual?
Sublingual delivery allows compounds to be absorbed through the mucous membrane under the tongue, entering the bloodstream more directly than oral ingestion. Research on fermented Kanna extracts suggests mucosal absorption may offer greater bioavailability compared to traditional oral methods.
*Approximate times based on general sublingual vs. oral delivery research. Individual experiences may vary.
Published Research
What the Research Explores
Kanna has been the subject of growing scientific interest. Here are key areas researchers have been investigating.
Mood & Stress
Emotional Balance & Stress Response
Preclinical studies and early clinical trials have explored Kanna's potential to support mood and modulate stress response. Its alkaloids' interaction with serotonin pathways has driven interest in this area, though large-scale clinical trials are still needed.
Harvey et al., Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011
Cognitive Function
Cognitive Flexibility
A 2014 randomized controlled trial found improvements in cognitive flexibility in healthy adults using a standardized Sceletium tortuosum extract, potentially linked to PDE4 inhibitory activity.
Terburg et al., Neuropsychopharmacology, 2013
Safety Profile
Tolerability & Safety
A 2013 safety trial found no significant adverse effects over a 26-week period. Animal studies have also shown a favorable safety profile at various dosages. Preclinical data suggest a low likelihood of abuse, with no reinforcing effects observed in rodent models.
Nell et al., Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2013
Important Note
If you are taking any medications — particularly SSRIs, antidepressants, or other serotonergic drugs — please consult your healthcare provider before using Kanna. Mesembrine inhibits serotonin reuptake through a similar mechanism as SSRI medications, which means a potential interaction risk exists.
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.
