The Effects of Kanna Extract: Overview and Scientific Findings

Do you feel stressed, irritated, or just suddenly in a bad mood? That’s all the more reason to be interested in kanna. This remarkable plant from South Africa has been used for centuries to calm the mind, improve mood, and better manage stress. And now it’s gaining attention from scientists too. What does modern research say about it? And why do we hear more and more about kanna extract?

Kanna or in Latin Sceletium tortuosum is a succulent plant originating from South Africa, where indigenous tribes have been using it for hundreds of years. It was formerly used by hunters to suppress fear and hunger during expeditions. Today, kanna is becoming a popular natural nootropic, meaning a substance that supports mental well-being and brain performance.

What does kanna contain?

The main active substances in kanna extract are so-called alkaloids, mainly mesembrine, mesembrenone, and mesembrenol. These substances influence the level of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for our mood, motivation, and calmness.

Simply put: kanna can gently "tune" our mood, reduce stress, and support mental balance without heavy sedation or dependency.

What are the proven effects of kanna extract?

Let’s go through the main effects of kanna extract that will impact your mind and body overall.

1. Calming and stress reduction

Kanna is known for its anxiolytic effects, meaning the ability to reduce anxiety and inner tension. Studies suggest that the extract helps lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, thereby improving our ability to handle stress.

2. Mood improvement

Regular use of kanna extract can lead to a more positive perception of reality, greater joy in life, and overall emotional stability. The substances contained in the plant slow down the breakdown of serotonin in the brain, thereby prolonging its effect.

A 2013 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that kanna may have an effect on mood comparable to some antidepressants, but without their side effects.

3. Increased focus and mental performance

Besides mental calming, kanna also helps with concentration. The effects of kanna extract are often associated with a state of inner calm combined with clear thinking, which is an ideal combination for learning or demanding work.

4. Support of social behavior

An interesting effect also confirmed by some smaller studies. Kanna can enhance empathy and openness in communication. That is why it is sometimes used as a natural alternative to stimulants in social situations.

Kanna extract vs. powder

Although both variants come from the same source Sceletium tortuosum, they differ in effectiveness, method of use, and concentration of active substances.

Kanna powder (whole plant)

• It is a dried and often fermented plant, which is ground into a fine powder.

• It is the most natural and least processed form of kanna.

• The effect is usually milder, suitable for beginners or those who prefer a gradual onset of calmness and well-being.

• It can be consumed as tea, snuff or added to capsules.

Kanna extract

• The extract is the result of a concentrated extract from the plant, often standardized to a certain alkaloid content (e.g., mesembrine).

• It is many times stronger than ordinary powder – therefore it is taken in lower doses.

• Faster onset of effects, more pronounced effect (e.g., against stress or for concentration).

• It is usually supplied in the form of capsules or loose powder that dissolves in a drink.

Scientific findings and safety

Scientific studies show that kanna is safe and well tolerated when dosed correctly. However, some people may experience mild side effects at high doses, such as dry mouth or slight drowsiness.

It is important to choose a quality extract that contains standardized amounts of active substances. Natural forms, such as capsules or powder from fermented plant, are recommended for maximum effect.

Which kanna extracts to choose?

If you are deciding between different forms of kanna extract, it is good to know what each offers and what effect you can expect from it.

Kanna extract

This extract represents a great basic step for everyone who is just starting with kanna. It has a milder but still effective effect, ideal for calming the mind, reducing stress, and improving mood. Due to the lower concentration, it is easier to try how your body reacts to kanna and adjust the dosage.

Suitable for: beginners, daily use in smaller doses, support of good mood without strong dulling.

Kanna Ultra Strong extract

As the name suggests, this variant is for those who want an intense experience. Ultra Strong extract is highly concentrated and contains a larger amount of active alkaloids, especially mesembrine.

Suitable for: advanced users, intense relaxation, fast onset of effects.

How to take kanna extract?

• Common dosing ranges between 25–100 mg of extract daily (depending on concentration).
• Effects usually begin within 30 to 60 minutes.
• In some people, effects deepen with regular use over several days.

Conclusion

Kanna extract represents an interesting option to support mental health, reduce stress, and improve quality of life naturally. Due to growing interest from science and users, kanna extract is today one of the most interesting natural nootropics.

Tip at the end: If you are starting with kanna, it may be good to start with the powder form and gradually switch to the extract once you find out how it affects you.