Drug culture is always changing, with new trends and substances emerging. One such recent development is the use of kanna as an alternative to more traditional stimulants such as coke or speed. But can you really snort kanna instead of these drugs? In this article, you will learn more about the properties of kanna and look at its effects compared to coke and speed.

What is kanna?

Also known as Sceletium tortuosum, Kanna is a succulent plant native to South Africa^[1]. The plant has been used by indigenous people for centuries for its medicinal properties. Kanna is best known for its mood-enhancing and relaxing effects, and its users can attest to that!

Kanna works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain^[2]. This affects mood, anxiety levels and cognitive functions. It can cause feelings of euphoria, relaxation and mental clarity.

Kanna vs coke and speed

Coke is a highly addictive stimulant drug derived from coca leaves. It has a powerful stimulant effect on the central nervous system. Coke causes a strong rush of energy and can lead to feelings of self-confidence and euphoria.

Amphetamine, also known as Speed is a powerful stimulant drug often used recreationally because of the strong energy boost and increased alertness it causes. Speed can lead to a feeling of self-confidence, increased focus and euphoria.

Kanna offers several advantages over cocaine and amphetamine (speed). First, kanna is legal and easily available, avoiding the legal complications and risks associated with illegal drugs.

In addition, kanna has milder stimulant effects and does not cause the same intense euphoria or addictive properties as coke and speed. Moreover, kanna has relaxing effects, which can contribute to a more balanced experience without serious side effects or health risks. This makes kanna a safer and more accessible alternative for people looking for a milder stimulant.

Kanna snorting, is it safe?

A popular question among people interested in kanna is whether you can snort it instead of coke or speed. Although kanna is available in different forms namely in liquid and powder form, it is important to know that snorting kanna is not a common or recommended method of consuming it.

Sniffing kanna can be potentially harmful to your nose and lungs. Kanna contains alkaloids and other active ingredients that can be irritating if inhaled directly into the airways.

It is highly recommended to take kanna in a safer way, such as via capsules, under your tongue or in tea. This way, you ensure better absorption and minimise the risk of damage to your respiratory tract.

Risks of combination use

Note: kanna contains active substances called mesembryanthenes, which act on the central nervous system.^[3]These substances can cause interactions with ssri drugs, such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft) and escitalopram (Lexapro). Combining these drugs with Kanna may result in an unpredictable reaction in your body. Want to know more? If so, feel free to contact us!

^[1] https://www.gaiaherbs.com/blogs/seeds-of-knowledge/what-is-kanna

^[2] https://www.verywellmind.com/news-is-kanna-really-natures-mdma-heres-what-you-need-to-know-5425954

^[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8124331/