Research Insights: Biological Properties of Sceletium tortuosum
This blog post is based on the review "A Chewable Cure “Kanna”: Biological and Pharmaceutical Properties of Sceletium tortuosum" by Madira Coutlyne Manganyi, Cornelius Carlos Bezuidenhout, Thierry Regnier, and Collins Njie Ateba, published in Molecules (2021, Volume 26, Issue 9, Article 2557). Read the full article here: A Chewable Cure “Kanna”: Biological and Pharmaceutical Properties of Sceletium tortuosum.
Sceletium tortuosum, commonly known as kanna or kougoed, is a South African succulent with traditional use among San and Khoikhoi tribes. This review provides an overview of its biological and pharmaceutical properties, emphasizing bioactive compounds and potential applications, based on studies up to 2021.
Background on Kanna from the Research
Sceletium tortuosum belongs to the Mesembryanthemaceae family and has been used historically for quenching thirst, fighting fatigue, healing, social, and spiritual purposes. In modern contexts, it is recognized for promoting well-being, relieving stress, and calming effects. The review updates on research since 2008, linking traditional uses to scientific evidence, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mood-related properties.
Ethnomedicinal Use and Historical Overview
Traditional preparations involve fermentation of aerial parts, used by indigenous groups for endurance during hunts and stress management in arid environments. Anecdotal and historical reports highlight its role in South African materia medica, with commercialization as dietary supplements, teas, and extracts.
Phytochemistry
The plant contains alkaloids like mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembrenol, tortuosamine, and chennaine, affecting central nervous system targets. These compounds contribute to its psychoactive properties, with extracts showing effects on serotonin reuptake and PDE4 activity.
Biological Properties
- Antimicrobial: Extracts inhibit bacteria and fungi, with potential against pathogens.
- Anti-inflammatory: Modulates cytokines and glucocorticoid synthesis, relevant to chronic conditions.
- Antioxidant: Scavenges radicals and protects against oxidative stress.
- Antidepressant and Anxiolytic: Influences serotonin signaling, with studies showing effects in animal models.
- Other: Includes antimalarial, anti-HIV, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory activities in vitro and in vivo.
Pharmaceutical and Veterinary Applications
Alkaloids target enzymes in steroid synthesis, potentially reducing glucocorticoids linked to metabolic conditions. Veterinary uses include natural treatments for animals. Commercial forms like Zembrin are used for cognitive and mood support.
Potential Mechanisms and Implications
Bioactivities stem from alkaloids' interactions with serotonin transporters, PDE4, and inflammatory pathways, supporting traditional uses for well-being and stress relief.
Limitations and Future Research
Variability in alkaloid content due to cultivation and processing; limited clinical data. Future needs include evaluating bioactivities, responsible compounds, sustainable cultivation, and confirming roles in health promotion.
Current Ongoing Research
The review calls for critical evaluation of bioactivities to reinforce kanna's role in well-being, especially in stressful times.
