This post summarizes a review of the biological and pharmaceutical properties of Sceletium tortuosum by Manganyi et al., published in Molecules (2021). Read the full review.
Scope
The review surveys research on kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) since 2008, connecting its recorded traditional uses to the laboratory evidence gathered so far.
Traditional use
The review records use among the San and Khoikhoi peoples: fermented preparations of the plant's aerial parts, endurance during hunts, and a place in social and spiritual life in one of the world's harsher environments. Modern commercial forms include supplements, teas, and extracts.
Chemistry
The plant's alkaloids include mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembrenol, tortuosamine, and channaine. In laboratory models, the mesembrine-type alkaloids act on serotonin reuptake and PDE4 activity.
What the laboratory work shows
Across in vitro and animal studies, the review reports antioxidant activity, modulation of inflammatory signaling, and mood-related effects in animal models tied to serotonin signaling. As with most botanical research, the bulk of this evidence is pre-clinical.
Limits
Alkaloid content varies with cultivation and processing, and clinical data remain limited. The authors call for critical evaluation of the reported bioactivities, identification of the compounds responsible, and sustainable cultivation.
†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
