The effect of Kanna comes from its 25 active ingredients, or alkaloids. Alkaloids are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, fungi and even some animals. These compounds often have a strong effect on the human body and brain. For example, in coffee the alkaloid is caffeine, which is known for it’s stimulating effect on the body and brain. While in magic truffles, psilocybin is the alkaloid, known for its psychedelic effects, such as altering perception and expanding the mind. 

For kanna, the three most important naturally occurring alkaloids are:

• Mesembrine
• Mesembrenone
• Mesembrenol

There is a growing evidence base that suggests these alkaloids together interact with the brain in unique ways to enhance mood, aid in handling stressfull moments, and improve overall well-being. The effects of Kanna can be experienced through various methods of consumption: chewing its leaves, brewing it into tea, or consuming it in powdered form. Once consumed, the active alkaloids in Kanna (mesembrine, mesembrenone, and mesembrenol) are absorbed into your bloodstream through your digestive system. These alkaloids will then travel through your bloodstream to your brain, where they begin to interact with your brain chemistry.

Kanna can be dosed on a one-off basis, which can be in many different forms such as a tincture or chews. It is also increasingly a popular microdosing option. 

 

The following effects may happen when you take Kanna 

 

 

Serotonin Boost

Serotonin is a chemical in your brain that is associated with happiness. Kanna keeps more serotonin around in your brain. This can make you feel happier, calmer, and more relaxed overall. It's like giving your brain a boost of positivity and reducing feelings of being overwhelmed and worry.

 

Promoting balance

When you consume Kanna, the alkaloids in the plant interact with certain receptors in your brain. These interactions help regulate the release of cortisol and reduce its overall levels in your body. Cortisol is commonly known as the stress hormone because it is released in response to stressful situations, preparing the body to fight or flight. By lowering these cortisol levels, Kanna may promote a sense of relaxation.

 

Calm Feelings

Because cortisol levels decrease due to the consumption of Kanna, the amygdala—a region of the brain involved in processing emotions, especially fear and anxiety—also becomes less active. Additionally, Kanna's alkaloids, like mesembrine, increase the amount of serotonin in the brain through certain processes. Serotonin, is not only a chemical that can you make feel good, as described earlier, but it also can decrease the amygdala's activity. Therefore, by both lowering cortisol levels and enhancing the amount of serotonin in the brain, Kanna may help to calm the amygdala, which can potentially lead to a decrease in anxious feelings and fear response symptoms. 

 

 

Dopamine is another chemical in the brain that makes you feel pleasure and motivation. Kanna is proposed to increase dopamine, making activities more enjoyable and boosting your motivation.

Put together, Kanna’s unique alkaloids can help to elevate your mood, promote balance, and enhance your overall sense of well-being, making everyday experiences more pleasurable and fulfilling.

 

Different Grades of Kanna

 

Kanna is available in 3 broad different grades, each with varying levels of potency and purity. We’ll start with explaining the highest level. 

The pharmaceutical grade, contains the purest form of Kanna with the highest concentration of active alkaloids. This grade is typically used in research and clinical settings for its consistent and reliable effects.

The mid-grade Kanna is better known as purity / ceremonial grade, which is what is what we have available in our store. It offers a good balance of potency and accessibility, making it suitable for general use. 

At the lower end, there are Kanna products which contain Kanna mixed with other ingredients. The products at this level are designed for recreational use and typically have a lower concentration of Kanna which results in milder effects. While they may not offer the same level of benefits they are still an option for those new to Kanna or seeking a less intense experience.

 

Traditional Kanna Ceremonies

 

As described earlier, the Khoisan people are among the indigenous inhabitants of South Africa and were the first recorded users of Kanna. Traditionally, the Khoisan people used Kanna for its mood-enhancing and stress-relieving properties. This often took place in ceremonial settings where Kanna was shared among community members to foster a sense of unity and collective well-being. It was also used to enhance communication, promote social bonding, and facilitate spiritual experiences. The consumption of Kanna was frequently accompanied by singing, dancing, and storytelling, which were integral parts of Khoisan cultural expression.

In addition to its use in social ceremonies, Kanna was also used in traditional healing practices. Khoisan healers, known as shamans, utilized Kanna to help individuals achieve emotional balance and mental clarity. The plant's calming and mood-enhancing properties made it a valuable tool for addressing various physical and emotional ailments. Shamans often guided people through Kanna rituals to promote healing and well-being.

 

Priming

 

While some people experience the full effects of Kanna right away, others might not feel much at all when used for the first time. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as ‘priming’. Priming essentially means that it may take a few occasions of using Kanna until the body becomes more familiar with the plant's ingredients, potentially allowing for a more noticeable effect. This process can be compared to the way certain other substances, such as probiotics or adaptogens, may require consistent use over time to yield perceived benefits.

 

The concept of priming with Kanna suggests that the body's response to the plant's alkaloids might become more pronounced with repeated exposure. This could be due to several factors:

• Biological Adjustment: The body’s receptors might need time to adjust to and recognize the alkaloids in Kanna. With continued use, these receptors might become more responsive.

• Neurochemical Adaptation: The effects of Kanna on neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine might take time to become noticeable. Regular use could help in achieving a more consistent experience.

• Individual Differences: Each person’s body chemistry is unique. Some individuals might naturally respond to Kanna differently. Initial non-responsiveness doesn’t mean the substance isn’t having an effect; it might simply require more time for certain individuals.

 

Practical Tips for Priming

If you’re new to Kanna and don’t feel its effects immediately, here are some tips that might enhance your experience:

• Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a lower dose and gradually increase it to find the amount that feels right for you.
• Consistency: Try using Kanna regularly for a few weeks to allow your body time to adjust.
• Monitor Your Experience: Keep a journal of your experiences to track any changes in mood, stress levels, and overall well-being.
• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Ensure you’re supporting your body with proper hydration and nutrition, as these can influence how you feel overall.

Although the idea of priming dates back to the first Khoisan tribes, it’s important to note that there is no scientific evidence to support this concept definitively. However, many users have reported increased efficacy with continued use, aligning with the traditional understanding of how Kanna works.

 

Where can I find Kanna?

We have a curated selection of kanna. You can find our collection here. 

 

 

Health Disclaimer and Warning

The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Psychoactive substances such as Kanna can have significant effects on the body and mind. Their use carries potential risks and should be approached with caution.

Important Points to Consider:

• Medication Interactions: Kanna appears to be a relatively safe substance with no known harmful short or long term effects if taken in small to moderate doses. It is nevertheless an SSRI and as such it can lead to very serious consequences if taken with other Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Xeroxat, Prozac, Citalopram and Sertraline, or with monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAO-Is), such as Peganum harmala, Banisteriopsis caapi, passion flower (Passiflora incarnata).
• Other Drug Interactions: Both Kanna and MDMA (ecstacy) work on the serotonin system, and we therefore advice against combining the two, or taking them closely to one another. This could lead to a too large amount of serotonine in your system (Serotonine Syndrome), which can be dangerous. 
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any psychoactive substances, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, are taking medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Legal Considerations: The legal status of psychoactive substances varies by country and region. Ensure you are aware of and comply with the local laws and regulations regarding the use, possession, and distribution of these substances.
• Safe Use: If you choose to use psychoactive substances, do so in a safe and controlled environment. It is advisable to have a trusted person present, especially if you are new to these substances or are trying a new one.
• Therapeutic Use: For therapeutic use, seek guidance from healthcare professionals or qualified practitioners experienced in the use of psychoactive substances for therapeutic purposes.

The authors of this blog do not endorse the illegal use of any substances and are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information provided. Use psychoactive substances responsibly and prioritize your health and safety.