Kanna: from traditional South African herb to modern antidepressant

Kanna is also known as Sceletium tortuosum and is a traditional herb from native South Africa. This herb has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes for its medicinal and stimulating properties^[1] .

Recent research has shown that Kanna can also serve as an effective antidepressant for modern societies. In this article, you will discover the history, uses and benefits of Kanna as an antidepressant, so read on quickly!

The history of Kanna

Kanna has a rich history in South Africa. Indigenous tribes in the region used this herb for thousands of years for various purposes. For instance, it was used to reduce stress, combat anxiety and as a general mood enhancer. In addition, Kanna was also used during spiritual rituals for its consciousness-altering effects.

Traditional uses of Kanna

The traditional use of Kanna usually involves chewing the herb or taking it in powder form. By chewing the herb, the active substances were absorbed in the oral cavity and quickly enter the bloodstream. This rapid absorption produces immediate effects such as improved mood, increased energy and reduction of anxiety.

Kanna as a modern antidepressant

With the rise of modern science, more and more research has been conducted on the potentially therapeutic effects of Kanna. Several studies have shown that certain active compounds in Kanna, such as mesembrine and mesembrenol, have positive effects on the serotonin system in the brain. This system plays a crucial role in regulating our mood and emotions^[2] .

By stimulating the serotonin system, Kanna can help reduce depressive symptoms. It can reduce feelings of sadness, reduce anxiety and provide a general sense of well-being. Moreover, Kanna can also improve cognitive functions, such as the ability to think clearly and better concentration.

Benefits of Kanna as an antidepressant

Using Kanna as an antidepressant has several advantages over traditional medicines. First, Kanna is a natural herb and has fewer unwanted side effects compared to synthetic antidepressants. For example, commonly used antidepressants can cause drowsiness, weight gain and sexual dysfunction .

In addition, Kanna also has a faster onset of action than many other antidepressants. While traditional drugs often take weeks before they take effect, Kanna can cause noticeable improvements in mood within just a few days.

A lesser-known advantage!

A lesser-known benefit of Kanna is its potential as a natural appetite suppressant. Indeed, traditionally it has been used by indigenous peoples during long hunting trips to reduce hunger. In the Netherlands, Kanna can be useful for those who want to control their eating habits or seek support for weight management. Besides its better-known effects on mood and anxiety reduction, this unique herb offers a natural, holistic approach to wellbeing, including, of course, promoting a healthier relationship with food! ^[3]

Is Kanna safe to use?

First, it is important to buy high-quality kanna products from a reliable supplier like SmartShop Tatanka. This ensures that you get a product that is free of contaminants and contains the correct dosage. In addition, it is important not to exceed the recommended dosage and always follow the instructions on the packaging.

Sources:

^[1] https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kauwgoed

^[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8762184/

^{[3] https://greatist.com/health/kanna-effects}