Kanna is a psychoactive plant that’s been used in southern Africa for centuries. The plant (Sceletium tortuosum) is often described as “nature’s MDMA” due to its mood-elevating and heart-opening effects. It’s also being touted as a natural alternative to antidepressants and anxiety supplements.

Sceletium tortuosum is considered a safe and natural substance

kanna legality in South Africa, where it’s legal to cultivate and sell as a medicine or herbal product. The botanical hasn’t been studied enough to determine whether or not it is safe for long-term use, but most people who consume kanna find that the plant acts as a mild anxiolytic with little side effects.

The mesembrine alkaloids in kanna act as anxiolytics and increase mood by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. This can cause feelings of euphoria, joy and empathy. It can also increase cognition and creativity.

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Some researchers are exploring the therapeutic benefits of kanna in a clinical setting. They are interested in its ability to help with PTSD and depression, and its potential for increasing feelings of connectedness and compassion.

Some research is also being done on the effectiveness of kanna to treat addiction, pain, glaucoma and insomnia. It’s also being tested for its ability to ease the nausea associated with chemotherapy, reduce muscle spasms in paraplegics and improve appetite. It is not recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women take kanna, as it may be harmful to the infant. The drug is also not safe to take in combination with other sedatives or substances that interfere with the breakdown of neurotransmitters, such as MAO inhibitors, SSRI antidepressants and 5HTP.