For centuries, the indigenous Khoisan people of South Africa have relied on a remarkable plant to enhance their mood, ease stress, and promote relaxation. Known as Kougoed or Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum), this succulent herb is now gaining popularity worldwide for its potential to support emotional well-being and cognitive function.
What is Kougoed (Kanna)?
Kougoed, meaning “chewable thing” in Afrikaans, is a small, drought-resistant plant native to South Africa. It has been traditionally fermented, chewed, brewed into tea, or even smoked to reduce anxiety, uplift mood, and promote mental clarity. Today, it is widely used in supplement form across the United States, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand for its natural stress-relieving benefits.
How Does Kanna Work?
Kanna contains mesembrine alkaloids, which interact with the brain’s serotonin system.
This results in:
✔ Improved mood – Helps relieve mild anxiety and depression.
✔ Reduced stress – Promotes relaxation without drowsiness.
✔ Enhanced cognitive function – Some studies suggest Kanna may improve focus and mental clarity.
✔ Non-hallucinogenic effects – Unlike cannabis, it does not cause a “high.”
Ways to Use Kanna
There are traditional and modern methods of consuming Kanna, each offering unique benefits:
1️⃣ Traditional Khoisan Methods
- Chewing (Raw or Fermented): Leaves are dried, fermented, and chewed for stress relief.
- Tea Infusion: Dried Kanna is steeped in hot water for a calming tea.
- Smoking or Snuffing: Some tribes historically smoked or inhaled it for faster effects.
2️⃣ Modern Consumption Forms
- Capsules & Supplements: Pre-measured doses for stress relief and focus.
- Tinctures & Liquid Extracts: Fast-absorbing drops taken under the tongue.
- Powdered Form: Can be mixed into tea, smoothies, or juice.
- Chewing Gum: Kanna-infused gum is available for easy use on the go.
Where is Kanna Most Popular? 🌍
- South Africa – Used traditionally for centuries and still popular today.
- United States & Europe – Available as a natural supplement for stress relief.
- Australia & New Zealand – Growing demand in wellness communities.
Potential Side Effects & Safety ⚠️
While Kanna is generally safe, high doses may cause:
- Mild headaches
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Drug interactions – Should not be mixed with antidepressants (SSRIs) due to its serotonin-enhancing effects.
Always start with a low dose and consult a healthcare provider if you are on medication.
Why is Kanna Gaining Global Attention?
As people seek natural remedies for stress and anxiety, Kanna is emerging as a powerful yet gentle alternative. Its ability to promote emotional well-being without drowsiness makes it an attractive choice for those looking to improve their mental health naturally.
Whether used traditionally or in modern supplements, Kanna remains one of nature’s hidden gems. As research continues, its mood-enhancing, stress-reducing, and cognitive-boosting properties are making it a sought-after herb for natural wellness.
If you’re looking for a plant-based way to relax, focus, and uplift your mood, Kougoed might just be the answer!
REFERENCES:
- Gericke, N. & Viljoen, A.M., 2008. Sceletium-A review update. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 119(3), pp.653-660.
- Smith, M.T., Crouch, N.R., Gericke, N. & Hirst, M., 1996. Psychoactive constituents of the genus Sceletium N.E.Br. and other Mesembryanthemaceae: a review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 50(3), pp.119-130.
- Coetzee, D.D., López, V. & Smith, C., 2016. High-mesembrine Sceletium extract (Trimesemine™) is a monoamine releasing agent, rather than only a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 177, pp.111-116.
- van Wyk, B.E., van Oudtshoorn, B. & Gericke, N., 2009. Medicinal Plants of South Africa. 2nd ed. Pretoria: Briza Publications.
- Manganyi, M.C., Bezuidenhout, C.C., Regnier, T. & Ateba, C.N., 2021. A chewable cure “Kanna”: Biological and pharmaceutical properties of Sceletium tortuosum. Molecules, 26(9), p.2529.
Natural does not always mean safe. Certain herbs might not be suitable for individuals who have certain medical conditions or are taking prescribed medication.
Always consult a medical professional before taking any herb. Never stop taking prescribed medications in favour of herbs without first discussing it with your Doctor.