We're thrilled to share this episode of The Third Wave Podcast, where host Paul F. Austin sits down with our founder, Ryan Latreille, to explore the rising prominence of Kanna (Sceletium Tortuosum) in the delic community and its profound benefits for mood, energy, and mental well-being.
As the founder of Kanna Extract Co., Ryan brings over a decade of expertise in plant medicines, sharing his personal journey that began with a transformative experience in 2012. He delves into Kanna's unique alkaloids—like mesembrine for mood, mesembrenone for calm, and d7mesembrenone for relaxation—and its mechanisms as a bio-amine releaser, light SSRI, and PDE4 inhibitor that boosts serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and BDNF for enhanced mental health.
The discussion covers taking Kanna for support with stress and mood over 4-6 weeks, while emphasizing safety precautions, such as avoiding combinations with SSRIs or MAOIs to prevent serotonin syndrome (always consult a doctor). Ryan highlights historical uses among the Khoi and San tribes, from fermented chewing for hunting and social rituals to ceremonial smoking and its cosmological ties to the eland antelope.
Modern applications shine through, including ethical sourcing from high-alkaloid strains grown on South African farms, rigorous lab testing for potency and purity, and benefit-sharing with indigenous communities. Ryan also explores popular pairings with other substances for grounding and heart-opening effects, plus our product lineup like LIFT for uplifting experiences and BLISS for blissful relaxation.
This episode intersects culture, spirituality, and transformation through Kanna's lens. If you're curious about this safe, ethical plant medicine, tune in to gain insights from a leader in the field and discover how Kanna Extract Co. is making high-quality, responsibly sourced products accessible for your wellness journey.