Welcome to Kanna Wellness! Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about Kanna. Here, we address common inquiries about our premium Kanna extract powder, covering topics like consumption methods, daily usage, ethical sourcing, and product efficacy.
-
Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant native to South Africa, traditionally used for its mood-enhancing, stress-reducing, and cognitive-boosting properties.
Indigenous groups have consumed Kanna for centuries to promote relaxation, focus, and emotional well-being. Today, it is commonly used as an herbal supplement for energy, social ease, and mental clarity.
-
To consume our premium Kanna extract powder, use the provided measuring spoon to place 25-50mg under your tongue for approximately 30 seconds. This sublingual method ensures efficient absorption.
If you tend to be more sensitive, start with 15-25mg (one to two level scoops) to assess your body's response before adjusting the dosage.
This formulation can also be insufflated, which would create a much more intense effect and a shorter duration. Start with one scoop before increasing dose.
Read our beginners guide for how to take Kanna extract powder . -
Daily consumption of Kanna extract powder is generally safe. As an adaptogen, regular use may actually lead to needing smaller amounts over time.
For daily use, we suggest following a microdosing approach: use Kanna for several days, then take periodic breaks to assess its benefits compared to baseline days without consumption. A popular schedule option would be 5 days on, 2 days off.
-
We source our ethically grown Kanna from South African cultivators specializing in high-alkaloid strains of Sceletium tortuosum. Our partners practice sustainable agriculture and comply with South Africa’s Bioprospecting Access and Benefit Sharing (BABS) regulations, ensuring fair benefits for indigenous communities.
-
The effects of Kanna extract powder are subtle yet powerful. Many users report:
A gentle uplift in mood and energy.
A calm and focused state of mind.
A greater sense of connection to self and others.
A mild euphoria without any hallucinogenic effects.
Unlike psychedelics, Kanna does not cause altered states but instead enhances natural well-being and mental clarity.
-
Standard drug tests do not screen for Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) or its active alkaloids (mesembrine, mesembrenone). However, in rare cases where a test specifically targets mesembrine compounds, there is a chance of detection. Read more on our blog.
If you have concerns, we recommend checking with your employer or testing provider for clarification.
-
While some people choose to mix Kanna and alcohol, we do not recommend combining the two—especially in high doses.
Kanna is a natural serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI), and alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. Mixing the two can lead to unpredictable effects, including:
Drowsiness or dizziness
Nausea or stomach discomfort
Amplified emotional states
That said, some users report that small amounts of alcohol (like a glass of wine or a light cocktail) can complement low doses of Kanna by enhancing social ease and mood. If you choose to combine them:
Keep both doses light
Stay well-hydrated
Monitor your body’s response
Avoid combining with other substances
Kanna is also an excellent alcohol alternative for those seeking a sober-curious or cali-sober lifestyle. It can enhance mood and social connection without intoxication, hangovers, or crashes.
Looking to skip alcohol entirely? Try our Kanna Extract Powder or Kanna Drops as plant-powered ways to get lifted—hangover-free. Learn more about recreational Kanna here.
Ready to try Kanna? Explore our best-selling extract powders and capsules:
-
Kanna's effects are subtle yet profound, typically felt within 30 minutes as gentle energy and mild euphoria. If you don't notice these effects:
Review any current medications to rule out potential interactions.
Consider gradually increasing your dosage incrementally, starting at 25 mg and working your way up until you find your sweet spot.
Some people will require priming with Kanna, which you can read about in our Kanna priming guide here.
-
Clumping of Kanna extract powder indicates moisture exposure. To prevent this:
Use only dry utensils when handling the powder.
Store the jar in a cool, dry environment, preferably within the provided bag alongside the desiccant pouch.
If clumping occurs, gently break apart the powder with a sanitized, dry spoon before use.
Clumping of Kanna extract powder does not affect potency. -
Yes, Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is 100% legal in Canada. It is not classified as a controlled substance, meaning you can buy and consume Kanna products in Canada without restrictions.
-
Kanna should not be combined with:
SSRIs or MAOIs (due to potential interactions with serotonin).
Alcohol (may amplify sedative effects).
Certain psychoactive substances (effects may vary). Please check for interactions.
If you are taking prescription medication, please consult your doctor before using Kanna extract powder.
-
Yes! Our Kanna extract powder has a naturally slightly bitter taste, which is common for potent herbal extracts—after all, many of the best medicines are bitter to swallow! ;)
Some people don’t mind the taste, while others prefer to mask it. If you find it off-putting, try:
Mixing it into a flavored beverage (e.g., cacao, tea, or juice—avoid very hot or cold liquids).
Chasing it with honey or a sweet drink to balance the bitterness.
This won't affect the potency but can make the experience more enjoyable!
Still curious? Dive deeper with our blog posts:
-
To maintain the potency and freshness of your Kanna extract powder, store it:
In a cool, dry place (avoid humidity).
Away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation.
In its provided sealed container and airtight bag with a desiccant pouch.
Proper storage helps preserve the alkaloids and extend shelf life.
-
Kanna is generally well-tolerated, but potential side effects include:
Mild headaches or nausea (if taken in large amounts).
Drowsiness or fatigue (higher doses may feel sedative).
Dry mouth (similar to other herbal supplements).
These side effects are rare and dose-dependent.
-
If you take antidepressants (SSRIs, MAOIs) or anti-anxiety medication, do not take Kanna. In this case, consult a healthcare professional before using Kanna. Kanna’s effect on serotonin may interact with prescription drugs and possibly cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrom.
-
For first-time users, start with:
Sublingual: 25mg (increase to 50mg if needed).
Beverage mix: 50mg stirred into tea or juice.
Sniffing (intranasal): 10-25mg (if preferred method).
Adjust based on personal tolerance. It can take some trial and error to find your dose, but when you do, you should clearly feel the effects.
Read our beginners guide for how to take Kanna extract powder here where we break down the dosing guidelines.
-
Kanna may support mood balance by promoting serotonin release, but it is not a replacement for medical treatment. Many users report:
Reduced stress and nervousness.
Increased relaxation without sedation.
Enhanced emotional resilience.
If you have a diagnosed condition, consult a doctor before use.
-
No, Kanna is not addictive. Unlike substances that create dependency, Kanna works adaptogenically, meaning long-term use may actually reduce the amount needed.
-
There is no clinical research on Kanna use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. To be safe, avoid Kanna while pregnant or nursing unless approved by a healthcare provider.
-
Alcohol: May enhance relaxing effects, so use with caution.
Caffeine: Can balance energy & focus, making it a popular combination. Use caution if you are very sensitive.
Try low doses first to see how your body responds.
-
Properly stored Kanna extract remains potent for 2-3 years. If the color, smell, or texture changes, it may be past its best. Consult the best before date on the back of our products.
Clumping of Kanna extract powder does not mean it is past it’s best before date.
-
Some countries restrict Kanna imports. Before flying, check local laws on herbal supplements to avoid confiscation at customs.
Other Questions? Get in touch.
Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a crawling succulent that grows in South Africa.
Thanks for stopping by! We’re a small mother-daughter run Canadian company.