Introduction to Kanna: What It Is, Alkaloids, History, Uses, Consumption Methods, Dosage, Timing, and Safety

Kanna, scientifically known as Sceletium tortuosum, is a succulent ground-cover plant native to the arid regions of South Africa. It belongs to the Mesembryanthemum genus and is traditionally referred to as "Kanna," "Channa," or "Kougoed," which translates to something chewable. The plant features fleshy leaves and yellow or white flowers, adapted to thrive in dry environments.

Main Alkaloids in Kanna

Kanna contains several alkaloids that contribute to its properties, with the primary ones being mesembrine, mesembrenone, and delta-7-mesembrenone. Mesembrine is associated with uplifting and energizing effects. Mesembrenone provides calming and somatic influences. Delta-7-mesembrenone supports relaxation. These alkaloids are important because their ratios determine the overall profile of effects, such as whether the experience leans toward energy or calm.

To identify alkaloid content in a Kanna product, review the product label for total alkaloid percentage and specific breakdowns, such as 5% total alkaloids with details on mesembrine levels. Check the Certificate of Analysis (COA) provided by the manufacturer, which lists tested alkaloid concentrations using methods like HPLC. At Kanna Extract Co., all products include COAs in the images section of each product page, showing standardized alkaloid profiles.

History of Kanna

Kanna has a long history of use among indigenous South African tribes, including the San and Khoi peoples, dating back centuries. It was traditionally fermented and chewed or inhaled during hunts, rituals, and social activities to support stamina, focus, and social bonds. Historical records indicate its role in trade and as a thirst quencher. In modern times, Kanna has gained attention for its potential in natural supplements, with extracts developed for consistent use.

What Kanna Is Used For

Kanna is used to support mood, energy, vitality, focus, and connection. At Kanna Extract Co., our products are formulated with specific alkaloid ratios to target these areas: LIFT features higher mesembrine for uplifting energy, BLISS emphasizes mesembrenone for enhanced touch and somatic effects, RELAX promotes harmony, PLAY supports social openness, and DREAM aids restful evenings.

Methods of Consumption

Kanna can be consumed in various forms, with our products available in powder and tincture formats for versatility.

• Chewing: Fermented plant material chewed for oral absorption. Effects start within 15-30 minutes.
• Tea or Infusion: Dried powder steeped in hot water for a mild experience, with effects in 30-60 minutes. Mix our powder extracts into tea.
• Tinctures: Liquid form taken sublingually or added to drinks. Our tinctures provide fast absorption in 10-20 minutes.
• Powders: Mixed into beverages or food. Our high-potency powder extracts, like LIFT or BLISS, allow precise dosing.
• Capsules: Powder encapsulated for oral ingestion, with effects in 30-90 minutes. We offer capsules for convenient daily use.
• Inhaling: Dried material inhaled for rapid onset within minutes.

Our products come in these form factors to suit different preferences, all ethically sourced and lab-tested.

When to Take Kanna: Timing, Set, Setting, and Activities

Timing depends on desired effects:

• Morning: For energy and focus support.
• Afternoon: To maintain vitality and mood.
• Evening: Lower amounts for relaxation.

Set and setting influence effects: Choose a comfortable, familiar environment with a positive mindset. Activities that enhance felt effects include meditation, yoga, light exercise, listening to music, social interactions, or nature walks. For example, pair LIFT tincture with morning exercise or BLISS powder with evening meditation.

How Much to Take: Dosage Guidelines

Dosage varies by form and alkaloid content. Start low:

• Raw Dried Material: 500-1000 mg.
• Standardized Extracts (0.5-2% alkaloids): 50-100 mg, 1-2 times daily.
• High-Potency Extracts (5%+ alkaloids): 10-40 mg.

For our products: 10-40 mg of LIFT powder for social fun; 10-40 mg of BLISS for relaxation. Follow label instructions.

Safety Precautions

Kanna is generally considered safe with a long history of use, but potential side effects include headache, gastrointestinal discomfort, fatigue, or drowsiness. It is non-habit-forming. Avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on certain medications due to possible interactions; consult a doctor. At Kanna Extract Co., all products are third-party lab-tested for purity, with COAs available on product pages.

Explore our lineup of LIFT, BLISS, RELAX, PLAY, and DREAM in powder and tincture forms at KannaExtract.com to incorporate Kanna into your wellness routine.