Kanna: Nature's Ancient Ally for Calm, Connection & Mood Support

June 30, 2025

Excerpt for Shopify/Medium: Discover Kanna — an ancient South African herb with modern potential. Traditionally used to elevate mood, ease tension, and deepen social connection, Kanna is now emerging as a natural ally for emotional wellness. Learn how it works, its benefits, and how it fits into today’s herbal renaissance.

Introduction: What is Kanna?

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant native to South Africa. For over 300 years, it’s been used by the indigenous San and Khoikhoi people to ease anxiety, elevate mood, and support social bonding during ceremonies and daily life.

In recent years, modern herbalists and wellness seekers have rediscovered Kanna for its potential mood-supportive properties. Unlike pharmaceuticals, Kanna offers a gentle, natural experience that aligns with the body’s rhythms.

The History and Traditional Use of Kanna

Kanna was traditionally chewed, brewed as tea, or smoked. The San people used it to reduce fear before hunting and to foster unity during communal rituals. Oral histories and ethnobotanical records describe its calming and heart-opening qualities.

Today, standardized extracts and gummies make Kanna more accessible than ever. But its legacy remains: a plant that promotes harmony and emotional balance.

How Kanna Works in the Body

Kanna contains alkaloids like mesembrine and mesembrenone, which are believed to act on the brain’s serotonin system.

Mesembrine is a natural serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI), potentially supporting healthy serotonin levels.
Mesembrenone may also affect PDE4, an enzyme linked to cognition and mood regulation.

This dual action is thought to promote calm, uplift mood, and reduce feelings of social withdrawal — without the overstimulation of caffeine or the drowsiness of sedatives.

Benefits of Kanna (According to Research & Anecdotes)

Mood Support: Users often report a brighter outlook and a sense of lightness
Stress Relief: Kanna may ease feelings of overwhelm and tension
Social Connection: Many say it helps them feel more open and connected to others
Cognitive Clarity: Unlike many relaxing herbs, Kanna tends to leave the mind clear

Note: These statements are based on traditional use and emerging science. Not intended to treat or diagnose any condition.

Is Kanna Safe?

Kanna is generally well tolerated in moderate doses. However, because it interacts with serotonin, it should not be combined with SSRIs or MAOIs.

Possible side effects at high doses include headache or mild nausea. As with all herbs, starting with a low dose and listening to your body is key.

Why Kanna Gummies?

Gummies offer a delicious, convenient, and precisely dosed way to experience Kanna. They fit easily into your daily routine and can be taken on-the-go.

For many, gummies are the most accessible entry point into plant-based wellness.

The Kanna Renaissance: A Plant for Our Times

In a world of increasing stress and disconnection, Kanna is reemerging as a gentle tool for emotional resilience and connection. Whether you're navigating daily challenges or seeking a deeper sense of presence, Kanna invites you to ground, open, and reconnect.