Most people haven't heard of kanna — yet. But that's changing fast. As more people look for natural ways to feel calm, social, and sharp without alcohol or pharmaceuticals, kanna is quietly becoming the ingredient to know.
So what exactly is it? Where does it come from? And why are wellness-forward brands like Myce putting it in their drinks? Let's break it all down.
What Is Kanna?
Kanna is the common name for Sceletium tortuosum, a succulent plant native to South Africa. For thousands of years, Indigenous Khoikhoi and San peoples used it to elevate mood, reduce stress, and boost endurance — especially during long journeys.
Traditionally, kanna was chewed, smoked, or brewed into a tea. Today, modern extraction technology allows kanna to be concentrated into a standardized extract and incorporated into functional supplements, teas, and — more recently — ready-to-drink beverages like Myce.
It belongs to the Mesembryanthemaceae family and contains several active alkaloids — most notably mesembrine and mesembrenone — that interact with serotonin receptors and the phosphodiesterase (PDE4) enzyme in the brain.
How Does Kanna Work in the Body?
Kanna works through two primary mechanisms:
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Serotonin Reuptake Inhibition (SRI): The alkaloids in kanna act as natural serotonin reuptake inhibitors, meaning they slow down the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. This leads to elevated serotonin levels — associated with improved mood, feelings of well-being, and reduced anxiety.
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PDE4 Inhibition: Kanna also inhibits phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), an enzyme linked to stress and cognitive performance. By reducing PDE4 activity, kanna may enhance focus and support cognitive resilience under stress.
These dual mechanisms make kanna unique compared to most adaptogens.
What Are the Effects of Kanna?
At typical doses found in functional beverages, kanna users commonly report:
The effects are often described as subtle but noticeable — more like a "mood lift" than a "high." This makes kanna well-suited for social situations, creative work, or simply unwinding without the fog associated with alcohol.
Kanna Benefits: What Does the Research Say?
While kanna has been used traditionally for centuries, modern research is catching up. Key findings include:
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A 2013 clinical study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that a standardized kanna extract (Zembrin) significantly reduced anxiety and improved cognitive flexibility.
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A 2014 neuroimaging study showed kanna extract reduced amygdala reactivity to negative stimuli — in plain terms, it made the threat-detection center of the brain less reactive to stress.
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Research into PDE4 inhibition suggests potential cognitive and mood-stabilizing benefits, a mechanism also studied in treatment-resistant depression.
It's worth noting that most studies use standardized extracts at controlled doses. Effects can vary depending on form, dose, and individual biochemistry.
Does Kanna Get You High?
Not in the conventional sense. At typical doses (the kind found in functional beverages), kanna produces a gentle mood elevation — not intoxication. It does not impair motor function, coordination, or cognitive ability. You remain fully present and in control.
At very high doses, some users report more pronounced psychoactive effects — but this is far beyond what you'd encounter in a beverage. The doses in products like Myce are carefully calibrated for a functional, everyday experience.
Is Kanna Legal?
Yes. Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is not a controlled or scheduled substance in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, or the European Union. It is a dietary supplement,NHP,Food supplement and functional ingredient in these jurisdictions.
Why Myce Uses Kanna
Myce was built around a simple idea: you should be able to feel good socially without drinking alcohol. Kanna's unique combination of mood elevation, reduced anxiety, and cognitive clarity makes it the ideal functional ingredient for a drink designed for modern social occasions.
FAQ: Common Questions About Kanna
Q: How long does kanna last?
Effects from a kanna-based drink typically last 1–3 hours depending on individual metabolism, dose, and whether you've eaten.
Q: Is kanna addictive?
No evidence of physical dependence has been identified in research on kanna at functional doses. Unlike caffeine or alcohol, kanna does not appear to create tolerance or withdrawal symptoms with regular use at recommended amounts.
Q: Can I drink kanna every day?
Kanna is generally regarded as safe for regular use. That said, as with any functional ingredient, it's sensible to listen to your body and take occasional breaks.
Q: Where can I buy a kanna drink in United States?
Myce is available online at drinkmyce.com and ships across United States.
