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(Updated: July 2025)
Have you ever heard of the plant Sceletium tortuosuml, known as kanna, and wondered if it has any side effects? It's worth taking a closer look. Read on to learn what specific negative effects can occur and how to prevent them. What do scientific studies say about this topic?
Short answer:
The Sceletium tortuosum plant can have side effects. But they are very rare and usually only occur with improper use.
Side effects of kanna
Kanna is a plant commonly used for its mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety properties. It is available in various forms such as powder, capsules, and strong extracts. Like any supplement, kanna can have side effects, especially when taken in high doses or without proper guidance.
Common side effects
1. Headaches and nausea: These symptoms are quite common, particularly at higher doses of kanna.
2. Increased blood pressure and heart rate: Some users report these symptoms, which are likely due to kanna's stimulating effects on serotonin and other neurotransmitters.
3. Dizziness and lightheadedness: These can occur, possibly as a result of changes in blood pressure.
4. Dry mouth and gastrointestinal discomfort: These issues may arise, especially with initial use or higher doses.
5. Insomnia and disturbed sleep: While some find kanna helps with sleep, others experience difficulties.
Serious side effects
There is a possibility of serotonin syndrome. When used with other serotonin-modulating drugs, such as SSRIs, there is a risk of serotonin syndrome. This is a serious condition caused by excessive serotonin activity in the nervous system.
How to avoid kanna side effects
To keep kanna’s benefits while limiting its downsides, always start with a low dose and go slow. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and high-caffeine drinks, and pay attention to how your body responds. If you’re on prescription medication, talk to your doctor first to rule out interactions.
How long do kanna side effects last?
Mild side effects like headache or nausea usually fade within a few hours. If you experience dizziness or elevated heart rate, these symptoms also tend to pass quickly once kanna leaves your system. In rare cases of serotonin syndrome, you should get immediate medical help, but this is extremely rare.
Is kanna addictive?
Kanna is not considered physically addictive, which means you are unlikely to develop a chemical dependence on it. However, some people report mild psychological habits if they use kanna daily to manage stress or anxiety. It’s best to take breaks and use kanna mindfully to avoid building a routine that feels hard to stop.
Can kanna cause withdrawal?
Most users do not experience withdrawal from kanna, even after regular use. If you stop taking it, you may notice a small dip in mood or focus for a day or two, but this is temporary. Compared to traditional antidepressants, kanna shows a very low risk of withdrawal symptoms.
Precautions of using kanna
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Kanna should not be used due to a lack of safety data.
- Cardiovascular issues or psychological conditions: Individuals with these conditions should use kanna cautiously and consult healthcare providers before starting.
- Starting dose: It's advisable to start with lower doses to assess tolerance and avoid potential adverse effects.
Is kanna safe for daily use?
While kanna is generally safe, experts do not recommend daily long-term use without breaks. Using it every day can reduce its effects over time and might create a psychological habit. Try to limit kanna to a few times a week for the best balance of safety and benefits.
Scientific research and mechanisms
Studies highlight kanna's role in enhancing mood and cognitive function. It acts as a natural SSRI and inhibits PDE4, an enzyme that regulates mood and inflammation. These actions increase serotonin and other neurotransmitters, which are beneficial for mood regulation and stress response.
Additionally, kanna shows promise in enhancing cognitive functions such as memory and focus, likely due to its effects on neurotransmitter levels and synaptic plasticity.
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How to use kanna
For newcomers, or indeed for all users, the following recommendations should be taken into account:
- Start with a low dose: Begin with a small amount to see how your body reacts.
- Consult healthcare providers: Especially if you are currently on medication, due to potential interactions, particularly with psychiatric medications.
- Avoid continuous use: Do not use it continuously for extended periods to prevent tolerance build-up.
Kanna's effects and benefits continue to be studied. Existing research supports its use for anxiety, stress reduction, and cognitive enhancement, but more comprehensive clinical trials are needed to fully understand its potential and safety profile.
While kanna can offer significant benefits, it is important to use it responsibly and be aware of potential side effects.
Tip: If you are familiar with kratom, you will be interested in comparing kratom and kanna, as these plants have something in common.
Potential kanna interactions
1. Caffeine-containing beverages
Kanna can increase the stimulating effects of caffeine. This might cause heart palpitations, high blood pressure, and anxiety. Watch your caffeine intake when using kanna.
Energy drinks have high levels of caffeine and other stimulants. These can amplify the effects of kanna and raise the risk of side effects.
2. Alcohol
Mixing alcohol with kanna can enhance the sedative effects of both. This can make you very sleepy, slow your reactions, and lower your concentration. Drink alcohol in moderation and be careful.
3. Foods high in tyramine
Aged cheese and cured meats can affect serotonin levels. Even though there's not much proof that kanna interacts with tyramine, it's wise to be careful and watch your reactions.
Fermented foods like sauerkraut or soy sauce contain high levels of tyramine and may potentially affect the effects of kanna.
4. Citrus juices
Grapefruit juice can change how many drugs and herbal supplements are absorbed and metabolized in your body. This might affect how kanna works.
Summary
To sum up, kanna is a powerful mood-enhancing plant with a very low risk of serious side effects if used responsibly. Mild reactions like headache, nausea, or insomnia may happen, especially with higher doses. The best way to avoid these is to start low and go slow, watching for any personal sensitivities. While addiction and withdrawal are not common, it is still wise to use kanna with care and avoid combining it with certain medications or alcohol. Kanna seems promising for stress relief and cognitive support, but more long-term studies are needed. If you have health concerns, speak to a qualified professional. That’s what current research says about kanna’s side effects and how to manage them safely.
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