Kanna, derived from the succulent plant Sceletium tortuosum native to South Africa, has a long ethnobotanical history of traditional use for easing stress and lifting mood. Research suggests that its primary alkaloids, particularly mesembrine, may function as natural serotonin reuptake inhibitors and PDE4 inhibitors, which could help explain its reported calming and mood-supporting effects. Studies indicate that Sceletium tortuosum extract may help reduce anxiety and improve cognitive function, with preliminary clinical trials showing promise for stress reactivity and executive function under pressure. While the existing body of research is still growing, early findings have drawn interest from the scientific community for its potential role in supporting emotional well-being and mental clarity without significant sedation.
Compare this supplementIt is worth noting upfront that none of the four studies provided actually investigated Kanna (Sceletium tormentosum)...
View studies →The studies provided do not appear to contain any research on Kanna (Sceletium tormentosum) or its use for stress rel...
View studies →Research suggests that the available published evidence directly examining Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) for anxiety re...
View studies →The two studies provided do not investigate Kanna (Sceletium tormentulosum) or its use for mood support in any way. B...
View studies →These are commonly referenced dosage ranges for this supplement. They are not medical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare provider before supplementing.
| Form | Dose range | Frequency | Studied for | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capsule | 50 mg | Daily | Mood support and anxiety relief | Used in Dimpfel et al. (2016) study examining EEG and mood effects with Zembrin |
| Extract | 8–25 mg | Daily | Anxiety relief and stress relief | Lower doses studied in RCTs for anxiolytic effects with Zembrin extract |
| Extract | 25 mg | Daily | Cognitive function and executive function improvement | Specific dose used in Nell et al. (2013) RCT showing improved cognitive flexibility |
| Extract | 25–50 mg | Daily | Cognitive function and mood support | Used in clinical trials with Zembrin standardized extract (0.35% mesembrine) |
| Powder | 200–400 mg | Daily | General mood and stress support | Traditional and common consumer use of whole dried plant material |