It has been a topic of interest in the botanical supplement industry about unveiling the distinctions between Kanna and Kratom. The debate between these two has gained popularity in recent years. Both substances are used for wellness purposes, and their psychoactive properties are used individually.
Kanna is a traditional South African plant; as an aquatic herb native to South Africa, it has been historically consumed in some communities. On the other hand, Kratom is a tropical tree in the coffee family that is native to Southeast Asia and is also traditionally consumed in its native region.
Some combine these two herbs to complement their effects. However, only a few studies exist on interactions between Kanna and Kratom. Each has its benefits, side effects, and safety considerations. It is important to consider their alkaloid composition, as this plays a significant role in the attributes they are recognized for.
While both Kanna and Kratom are known for their unique chemical compositions, their use should always be well-informed and responsible. Blending them may amplify advantages but could also increase risks. In this article, we will summarize and discover the key aspects of each botanical and the implications of using them at the same time.
| Kanna | Kratom |
|---|---|
| South Africa | Southeast Asia |
| Has been historically consumed in some communities | Traditionally consumed in its native region |
| Contains alkaloids like Mesembrine and Mesembrenone | Contains alkaloids like Mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine |
Now that we have a good understanding between Kanna and Kratom let us take a look and understand more about their characteristics, uses, safety, benefits, side effects, and consumption methods.
What is Kanna?
Kanna, also known as Sceletium Tortuosum, is a succulent plant that grows in South Africa. It has been used for centuries by the indigenous San tribe and has gained popularity in recent years as a natural alternative to Kratom and other botanical substances. Kanna is often associated with boosting energy and is noted for its relaxation effects. The herb’s active alkaloid composition, like Mesembrine and Mesembrenone contributes to its effects.
Kanna is also called by names like “Channa” and “Kougoed” in South Africa and is traditionally dried, fermented, and consumed for its benefits like:
Nowadays, Kanna is widely popular as a way to manage stress and as well as balance our well-being in today’s busy lifestyles. The long history of the traditional use of Kanna shows how it can affect people when combined with other botanical supplements like kratom.
Kanna has been mainly analyzed for its chemical compositions, and others might ask, is it safe? As we all know, Kana is unique because it is one of the only natural botanical sources of compounds that act similarly to other compounds that contain serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain that produces mood-enhancing effects. They work by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin and binding receptors. It is perfect for balancing our emotions.
Through the compounds Mesembrine and Mesembrenone, Kanna functions as a natural serotonin modulator in the brain. These substances interact with enzymes and receptors that are involved in serotonin activity. The usage of any substance, even at typical doses that alters serotonin, can drastically change a person’s brain chemistry and mood.
So, it is important to keep in mind that even though the traditional use of Kanna is considered well tolerated, this herb can alter intricate neurotransmitter balance. Thus, it is important to use it responsibly, be well informed on its proper usage, and use it in moderation. They should also monitor for any concerning reactions suggestive of personal biochemistry disruption. Also, consulting a physician will guide you safely in using psychoactive supplements like Kanna.
Helping people address mood issues has been given an emphasis as one of the most popular uses of Kanna as a botanical supplement. In what way? Kanna has rare compounds that interact with the serotonin in the brain, and through the effects of this serotonin, here are the several benefits of taking Kanna:
For now, we have learned from how people used Kanna traditionally, and up to the present day, we need more clinical information to guide us in its proper usage. After all, its main benefit, which is moderating mood, suggests a positive impact based on stories and early evidence. Further research is still ongoing to really examine the therapeutic potential of this unique plant medicine.
This therapeutic herb also has side effects if not used appropriately. Its side effects can occur at any dosage; thus, it is crucial to be aware that rare, severe side effects can exist at any dosage.
Take note of these common side effects that may occur, especially at higher doses, and these include:
But don’t stress too much because these effects are usually temporary and mild for most people.
There are a lot of methods for the consumption of Kanna. But the most common way to use it is through sublingual use, insufflating or snorting, smoking, and lastly, through oral usage.
Let us dive into the first common way to use Kanna, which is the Sublingual Use. In the Sublingual Use method, it means that you will put it under your tongue. You do not need to swallow it like a pill that you would take with water. Place the Kanna leaves, powder or its extracts on your tongue or against the inner cheeks. Then, it allows faster absorption directly into the bloodstream without digestion. The traditional way is by chewing the fermented leaves, stems, and roots.
The second way is by Insufflating/Snorting. It is done by inhaling the Kanna powder through the nasal passages. It gives rapid effects but can also irritate sinuses at the same time. This method is not sustainable for regular use due to discomfort.
The third method is by Smoking. Typically, it has been proven that it is not an effective way to use Kanna. It will only add little therapeutic benefit compared to other methods. Although, it can be added in small amounts to cannabis for some extra relaxation.
Lastly, the Oral Use method is deemed to be the most common way to use Kanna. It is done by swallowing capsules, drinking tea, or eating/chewing the leaves. This method is convenient; however, its absorption and effects may be diminished at some point. Oral consumption with doses around 2-3 grams effects can vary dramatically based on intake method, individual physiology, concentration of alkaloids, and product quality. Careful evaluation of the appropriate Kanna usage on a personal level remains important as a psychoactive plant.
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. Southeast Asian cultures have traditionally used its leaves for hundreds of years. Kratom is valued for properties like relieving discomfort, boosting energy, and lifting mood.
The main active compounds found in kratom leaves are mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine. These compounds act on specific receptors in the brain to produce effects like reduced feelings of relaxation, increased alertness, and calmness.
Today, kratom continues to be exported globally in the form of powders and extracts. While many people use kratom for therapeutic purposes, some also utilize this botanical supplement recreationally. Kratom is commonly taken in powder or capsule form, brewed into tea, or taken in extract form.
Kratom contains over 40 alkaloids, with mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine being the most prevalent. Concentrations of specific alkaloids can vary amongst different strains. Many kratom compounds interact with cell receptors that influence relaxation and mood.
In sensitive individuals or with reckless use, kratom can produce side effects like fatigue, constipation, nausea, and slowed breathing. Kratom might produce dependence if used daily and repeatedly. Additionally, serious side effects can occur in some individuals.
Combining kratom with other substances also increases safety risks significantly. Practicing moderation with kratom from vetted sources might help maximize benefits while minimizing adverse reactions.
Through its complex blend of alkaloids, kratom interacts with various biological pathways and receptors to produce an array of effects that differ amongst strains and dosages. This allows versatility but requires finding the optimal product for each person. Some potential benefits include:
Kratom might promote relaxation at higher dosages, depending on the strain. Red strains are believed to contribute the most to relaxing effects.
Some report kratom stabilizes mood through soothing and mildly uplifting properties. This effect can come from various strain types depending on personal reactions.
Certain alkaloids create stimulant effects, increasing wakefulness, physical energy, and mental drive like caffeine. This effect comes primarily from the lower doses of White and Green vein strains.
Kratom might improve focus and motivation depending on the strain and dosage.
Potential positives should also be weighed carefully against side effects like dependence and interactions. This botanical might benefit many people when intentionally integrated into a conscious lifestyle.
While generally well-tolerated, kratom does carry risks of specific side effects, especially with excessive intake. Some possible common adverse reactions can include:
Prolonged daily usage of high doses also increases the risks of dependence. More severe and rare side effects can also occur in some users.
There are also a lot of ways that Kratom powders, leaves, and extracts can be consumed. First, by using powder, you can consume it by scooping the Kratom powder into the mouth and washing it down with a drink.
Another one is by capsule intake. These capsules are gelatin or vegetable-based capsules with pre-measured Kratom powder.
One common way to consume Kratom is through Tea by making a brewed tea with either kratom leaves or powder.
Also, extracts are usually standardized to contain a percentage of kratom alkaloids. Liquid extract shots, extract powder, and capsules are common.
Lastly, Kratom can be consumed through edibles. This edible includes Kratom extract from gummies, candies, chocolates, baked goods, and more.
CONTENT DISCLAIMER: The content on this page is strictly for entertainment purposes only. The content below has not been medically reviewed and is not intended to offer advice for use or intended use. For more information about kratom and its potential dangers, please visit the fda.gov site.
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