We're thrilled to share this episode of the PT Podcast, where host Joe interviews our founder, Ryan Latreille, on the history, science, and potential of Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) as a legal plant medicine for wellness and connection.
In this engaging conversation, Ryan shares his personal journey with Kanna, starting over a decade ago, and how it led to founding Hearthstone Collective—focused on functional botanicals—and later Kanna Extract Co., dedicated to premium, high-potency extracts for everyday and ceremonial use. He discusses collaborating with a Khoi tribal leader to ethically source high-alkaloid strains, ensuring quality from seed to harvest while honoring indigenous traditions.
The episode explores Kanna's rich history among southern African tribes, where it's been used for centuries in rituals and daily life to boost stamina, focus, and social bonds. Ryan breaks down its unique alkaloids—up to 28 known compounds—that gently stimulate the release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, creating uplifting, heart-opening effects without overwhelming the user. This makes Kanna a standout choice for enhancing mood, energy, and emotional well-being, often as a healthier social alternative to alcohol, promoting openness and connection in festive settings without next-day discomfort.
Key highlights include dosing tips based on desired effects, from subtle daily support to more immersive experiences, and how different alkaloid ratios and grades influence the outcome. Ryan emphasizes safety, noting Kanna's non-habit-forming nature and the importance of consulting a healthcare provider for potential interactions with certain medications. He also touches on innovative ways to combine strains or complementary botanicals for tailored results.
At Kanna Extract Co., we build on this expertise with lab-tested, ethically sourced products like our LIFT extract for energizing uplift and BLISS for relaxing harmony. Whether you're new to plant medicines or seeking a natural enhancer for vitality and connection, this episode offers valuable insights into why Kanna is gaining popularity.
