StackTerminal.Health

BETA

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum)

Kanna is a South African succulent known for its mood-enhancing and anxiolytic effects, primarily due to its mesembrine alkaloids that act as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and PDE4 inhibitors.

moodanxietystresscognitivenootropic
Evidence last reviewed: 20 Apr 2026
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Biomarkers studied
Outcomes directly measured across the evidence records below
Hormonal
Cortisol
Cognitive
Mood / WellbeingAnxietyCognitive Function
Evidence
3 records
Mood enhancement
Adults with mild anxietyRCT
PUBMEDModerate

Kanna extract significantly improved mood and reduced anxiety symptoms.

Dose: 25 mgDuration: 4 weeksForm: ExtractTiming: Daily in the morning
Study used a standardized extract with 0.5% mesembrine.
Cognitive function
Healthy adultsRCT
PUBMEDLow

Acute administration of Kanna improved executive function and cognitive flexibility.

Dose: 25 mgDuration: Single doseForm: ExtractTiming: 2 hours before cognitive testing
Single-dose study with cognitive testing 2 hours post-administration.
Cortisol reduction
Adults under stressRCT
PUBMEDLow

Kanna supplementation led to a significant reduction in cortisol levels.

Dose: 25 mgDuration: 2 weeksForm: ExtractTiming: Daily in the morning
Cortisol levels measured via saliva samples.
Forms
Extract
Standardized to mesembrine content, commonly used for mood enhancement.
Powder
Whole plant powder, less standardized but traditional form.

Stacks containing Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum)

Public community stacks that include this ingredient.

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moodanxietystress

Combining Kanna and Saffron can provide mood enhancement and anxiety reduction. Kanna is known for its anxiolytic and mood-enhancing properties, while Saffron has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety.

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum)
25mg
Saffron (Crocus sativus)
30mg
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