Sceletium tortuosum, commonly known as kanna, is a South African plant traditionally used by indigenous cultures for centuries. Modern interest in kanna focuses on its unique plant alkaloids, particularly mesembrine and mesembrenone, which have been the subject of increasing scientific research.
Key Alkaloids in Kanna
The primary bioactive compounds found in Sceletium tortuosum are mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembrenol, and mesembranol. Among these, mesembrine and mesembrenone are considered the most prominent.
Laboratory studies suggest that these alkaloids interact with neurotransmitter systems associated with serotonin, a chemical messenger involved in mood regulation, emotional balance, and stress response.
Interaction With Serotonin Pathways
Research indicates that kanna alkaloids may act as serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a mechanism also observed in several modern pharmaceutical compounds. By influencing how serotonin is recycled in the brain, these alkaloids may increase serotonin availability.
Serotonin plays a key role in mood regulation, motivation, and emotional stability. Because of this, kanna has drawn attention in scientific literature exploring plant-based compounds and mood-related pathways. However, more human clinical research is needed to fully understand the extent and significance of these interactions.
PDE4 Inhibition and Inflammatory Pathways
In addition to serotonin-related mechanisms, studies suggest that kanna alkaloids may inhibit phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4). PDE4 is an enzyme involved in inflammatory signaling within the body.
By reducing PDE4 activity, these alkaloids may influence the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are signaling molecules released by immune cells. This has led researchers to explore kanna in the context of anti-inflammatory pathways, although this area of study is still developing.
Effects on Neurotransmitter Transport
Some research indicates that kanna alkaloids may upregulate vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT-2), a protein involved in transporting neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine within the brain.
These neurotransmitters are essential for cognitive function, motivation, and emotional processing. By influencing their availability, kanna’s alkaloids may contribute to the plant’s historical reputation for supporting endurance, focus, and emotional resilience.
Cannabinoid Receptor Interaction
Preliminary studies also suggest that certain kanna alkaloids may bind to human cannabinoid receptors. This interaction has drawn comparisons to non-intoxicating plant compounds such as CBD, particularly in how they may influence serotonin signaling.
This area remains an active field of research, and scientists continue to investigate how these interactions may relate to traditional ethnobotanical uses.
Traditional Uses and Hormonal Research
Historically, kanna was used by indigenous populations to help manage fatigue, stress, hunger, and physical endurance during long journeys or hunting expeditions. Some early research suggests kanna alkaloids may influence steroid hormone production, which could be linked to stress adaptation and energy regulation.
The relationship between kanna and stress-related hormones such as cortisol is not yet fully understood, and further research is required before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
Conclusion
Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a complex ethnobotanical with a rich history and growing scientific interest. Its alkaloids interact with multiple biological pathways involving serotonin, inflammation, neurotransmitter transport, and stress response.
While early research provides valuable insights into these mechanisms, ongoing studies are necessary to better understand kanna’s full biochemical profile and its traditional applications within a modern scientific context.