Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Kanna?

Kanna is a succulent plant native to South Africa, scientifically known as Sceletium tortuosum. For centuries, the indigenous San and Khoikhoi people have utilized the plant for its mood-enhancing, stress-relieving, and focus-sharpening properties.
 

2. How does it work?

Kanna acts primarily as a SRA (Serotonin Releasing Agent) and a VMAT2 upregulator. Unlike traditional SSRIs that merely block the reabsorption of serotonin, Kanna encourages the brain to release more serotonin while also inhibiting its reuptake. It also acts as a mild PDE4 inhibitor, which can help improve cognitive function and reduce inflammation.
 

3. What does it feel like?

The experience is often described in two phases:

• The Spark: An initial wave of alertness, mental clarity, and social confidence (the "social spark").

• The Glow: A long-lasting period of calm, centeredness, and emotional resilience. It does not feel "intoxicating" but rather like a "tuning" of the nervous system.
   

4. Is Kanna legal?

Yes. Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is legal in the United States, Canada, the UK, and most of Europe. It is not a scheduled substance. However, we always recommend checking your local regulations if you are ordering from outside these regions.
 

5. Is Kanna safe?

For most healthy adults, Kanna is very safe when used at recommended dosages. Because it affects serotonin levels, it should never be combined with certain medications (see the "Contraindications" section below). Common side effects from over-dosage can include mild nausea, loose stools, or a slight headache.
 

6. Contraindications & Safety Warnings

Important: Do not use Kanna if you are currently taking:

• SSRIs or SNRIs (Antidepressants like Lexapro, Zoloft, etc.)

• MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)

• 5-HTP or St. John’s Wort

• Heart medications or those with severe high blood pressure.

Combining Kanna with other serotonergic substances can lead to Serotonin Syndrome, a serious medical condition. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new botanical supplement.
 

7. Does it show up on a drug test?

No. Standard 5-panel, 10-panel, and 12-panel drug tests do not screen for the alkaloids found in Kanna (Mesembrine, Mesembrenone, etc.).
 

8. How do I take it?

We offer Kanna in several formats to suit your lifestyle:

• Sublingual (Under the tongue): The fastest onset (10–15 minutes). Best for acute stress or social situations.

• Oral (Capsules/Tea): A slower onset (30–60 minutes) but a much longer duration. Best for sustained mood support throughout the day.

• Intranasal: Very fast onset and high potency. Recommended only for experienced users.
   

9. What is "Priming"?

Some users experience a "lag" period where they don't feel the full effects of Kanna for the first few days. This is called Priming. Your brain may need a few days of small doses to "wake up" the relevant receptors. If you don't feel much on day one, stay consistent!
 

10. Is it addictive?

Kanna is generally considered non-addictive. It does not produce a "come down" or significant withdrawal symptoms. However, as with any supplement that affects mood, we recommend taking "tolerance breaks" (e.g., 2 days off per week) to maintain the plant's effectiveness.

Still have questions? Reach out to our botanical experts at info@purekanna.co.za