Sceletium tortuosum aerial parts extract
Also known as: Sceletium tortuosum, Kanna, Kougoed
Overview
Sceletium tortuosum, commonly known as Kanna, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. The aerial parts of the plant are extracted and used as a herbal supplement primarily for anxiety, depression, and stress relief. It contains psychoactive alkaloids, notably mesembrine and mesembrenone, which serve as quality control biomarkers. These compounds contribute to its purported mood-enhancing and adaptogenic properties. While scientific interest is growing, research is still considered to be at a moderate level, with limited large-scale clinical trials. Available evidence consists of several small randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and a recent systematic review and meta-analysis, indicating emerging but not yet conclusive support for its benefits. Standardized extracts are preferred to ensure consistent alkaloid content.
Benefits
Sceletium tortuosum has demonstrated potential benefits, particularly in anxiety reduction. A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis indicated a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to placebo, with a moderate effect size (SMD -0.62, 95% CI -1.01 to -0.23, p < 0.05). Clinical studies also suggest benefits for mild to moderate depression and stress, although the effect sizes are less robust and require further confirmation. Preclinical studies have reported antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, but their clinical relevance remains unclear. Most evidence is based on studies involving adults with mild to moderate anxiety or stress. The onset of effects typically occurs within 1–2 hours after ingestion, with a duration of several hours.
How it works
Sceletium tortuosum primarily functions as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) and a phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitor. By inhibiting serotonin reuptake, it increases serotonin levels in the brain, which is crucial for mood regulation. Additionally, PDE4 inhibition elevates cyclic AMP levels, contributing to its antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. These actions primarily affect the central nervous system, modulating mood and stress responses. The main molecular targets include the serotonin transporter (SERT) and the PDE4 enzyme. While the alkaloids are absorbed orally, comprehensive pharmacokinetic data in humans are still limited.
Side effects
Sceletium tortuosum is generally well-tolerated in short-term use at recommended doses. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include mild headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, may include insomnia, dry mouth, and mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Rare side effects, observed in less than 1% of users, encompass allergic reactions and palpitations. Potential drug interactions exist with serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs), MAOIs, and stimulants, necessitating caution. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, individuals with severe psychiatric disorders, and those concurrently using serotonergic medications. It is not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Sceletium tortuosum is approximately 25 mg of mesembrine alkaloids per day, which is equivalent to roughly 50–100 mg of a standardized extract. Optimal dosage ranges typically fall between 50–200 mg of standardized extract per day, divided into 1–2 doses. It is advisable to avoid exceeding 400 mg/day without medical supervision, as the maximum safe dose is not definitively established. Sceletium can be taken with or without food, with effects usually manifesting within 1–2 hours. Standardized extracts are preferred for consistency, and unstandardized preparations should be avoided. While bioavailability may be enhanced with food, data are limited. No specific cofactors are required for its activity.
FAQs
What are the key considerations when starting Sceletium tortuosum?
Begin with a low dose to assess individual tolerance. Avoid combining it with other serotonergic agents to minimize the risk of serotonin syndrome. Monitor for any adverse effects and adjust the dosage accordingly.
Is Sceletium tortuosum safe for long-term use?
Short-term use appears to be relatively safe, but comprehensive long-term safety data are currently lacking. Further research is needed to fully evaluate the potential risks and benefits associated with prolonged use.
When is the best time to take Sceletium tortuosum?
It is generally recommended to take it in the morning or early afternoon to avoid potential sleep disturbances. Taking it earlier in the day allows its effects to be experienced without interfering with sleep patterns.
What results can I expect from taking Sceletium tortuosum?
Users may experience a moderate reduction in anxiety symptoms. Mood enhancement is possible, but the consistency of this effect can vary. It is not a substitute for prescription medications.
Is Sceletium tortuosum similar to MDMA?
No, Sceletium tortuosum is not equivalent to MDMA in terms of effects or safety profile. While it may have mood-enhancing properties, it does not produce the same intense psychoactive effects as MDMA and carries different risks.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34758918/ – This study reviews the biological and pharmaceutical properties of Sceletium tortuosum, confirming its antidepressant, anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties in preclinical models. It also highlights clinical evidence supporting its benefits for mood and anxiety. However, the review relies on small or non-RCT human studies, limiting the strength of its conclusions.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/26/9/2557/review_report – This is the review report for the article with URL https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/26/9/2557. The review report contains the reviewer's comments and the author's response. It does not contain any original research or data about Sceletium tortuosum.
- https://ouci.dntb.gov.ua/en/works/4EwdZJz9/ – This source presents a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs, revealing a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms with Sceletium tortuosum (SMD -0.62, 95% CI -1.01 to -0.23, p < 0.05). The study acknowledges heterogeneity in study designs and small sample sizes as limitations, but concludes that Sceletium tortuosum has a moderate effect on anxiety.
- https://www.verywellmind.com/news-is-kanna-really-natures-mdma-heres-what-you-need-to-know-5425954 – This article addresses the misconception that Kanna is similar to MDMA, clarifying that while it may have mood-enhancing properties, it does not produce the same intense psychoactive effects or carry the same risks. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the differences between the two substances and avoiding the assumption that they are interchangeable.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2024.1268101/full – This analytical review identifies mesembrine and mesembrenone as primary biomarkers in Sceletium tortuosum and confirms that analytical methods for quality control are well-established. While focusing on analytical chemistry rather than clinical outcomes, it provides valuable insights into the chemical composition and standardization of Sceletium tortuosum extracts.