Kanna Extract

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a small succulent plant indigenous to South Africa where it has been used
ceremonially and medicinally for centuries. Traditionally chewed, smoked, or brewed as tea by indigenous peoples, it was used to elevate mood, reduce anxiety, suppress hunger during long hunts, and promote social bonding.

The plant contains a unique group of alkaloids — primarily mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembrenol,
and tortuosamine — that interact with serotonin transporters and phosphodiesterase enzymes in ways
that are now generating significant scientific interest. Standardized extracts like the 0.50% mesembrine extract in this formula ensure consistent, reliable potency.

Kanna's bioactive alkaloids work through two primary and complementary mechanisms:

- Serotonin Reuptake Inhibition (SRI) — mesembrine and mesembrenone inhibit the serotonin transporter
(SERT), increasing the availability of serotonin in the synaptic cleft. This is the same general mechanism used by SSRI antidepressant medications, though Kanna works more gently and transiently as a botanical extract

- PDE4 Inhibition — Kanna alkaloids inhibit phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), an enzyme that breaks down cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate). Higher cAMP levels support improved mood, cognitive function, and reduced inflammation.

PDE4 inhibition is also associated with improved memory and learning

- The combination of these two mechanisms creates a synergistic effect on mood, anxiety reduction, and cognitive clarity that is distinct from either mechanism alone

Kanna has a long history of traditional use and a growing body of modern safety data:

- Generally well tolerated at standard doses
- May cause mild nausea or headache when first starting — typically resolves within a few days
- Due to serotonin activity, should NOT be combined with:
- SSRI or SNRI antidepressants
- MAO inhibitors
- Other serotonergic medications or supplements  (Risk of serotonin syndrome)
- May enhance effects of sedative medications
- Avoid combining with alcohol
- Not recommended during pregnancy or nursing
- Start with lower doses to assess individual tolerance
- Consult your healthcare provider if you are on any psychiatric medications

- Brendler et al. (2010) — Review published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology comprehensively documented Kanna's traditional use history and emerging pharmacological evidence for its mood and anxiolytic properties.

- Harvey et al. (2011) — Published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology, confirmed mesembrine's potent serotonin reuptake inhibition and PDE4 inhibitory activity — establishing the primary mechanisms of Kanna's mood effects.

- Chiu et al. (2014) — Randomized controlled trial found standardized Sceletium tortuosum extract significantly improved cognitive flexibility and executive function scores compared to placebo in healthy adults.

- Terburg et al. (2013) — Published in Neuropsychopharmacology, demonstrated Sceletium tortuosum extract significantly reduced amygdala reactivity to threatening stimuli — providing neurological evidence
for its anxiety-reducing effects.