Herbal Extract
Full Spectrum Kanna Extract (Sceletium tortuosum)
Also known as: Kanna, Sceletium tortuosum, Channa, Kougoed
Kanna is a South African succulent plant containing alkaloids (primarily mesembrine) traditionally used for mood support and anxiety relief. Modern research suggests potential serotonergic activity, though human clinical evidence remains limited.
Primary uses
- Mood support
- Anxiety relief
- Stress management
- Cognitive function
How it works
- Potential SSRI-like activity via serotonin reuptake inhibition
- PDE4 inhibition
- Monoamine modulation
Dosage
- Typical range
- 100-500 mg daily of extract standardized to 5% alkaloids
- Timing
- Morning or as needed
- With food
- Can be taken with or without food
- Duration
- Effects may develop over days to weeks with consistent use
- Special populations
- Pregnant/nursing women should avoid; use caution if taking serotonergic medications
Forms
- Powder (full spectrum extract)· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Nausea (rare at typical doses)
- Dizziness
- Mild headache
Contraindications
- Concurrent SSRI/SNRI use (potential serotonin syndrome risk)
- Pregnancy and lactation
- History of seizures
Products containing Full Spectrum Kanna Extract (Sceletium tortuosum)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Full Spectrum Kanna Extract (Sceletium tortuosum) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
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Evidence notes
Limited human clinical trials; most evidence is in vitro or animal studies. A few small human studies suggest mood and anxiety benefits, but larger RCTs are needed for stronger evidence grading. Full spectrum extracts with defined alkaloid content are better characterized than crude forms.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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