Kanna Rapé

What is Rapé Kanna?

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum), also known by its Dutch colloquial name kougoed, is a succulent plant with several centuries of traditional recreational and medicinal use by the Khoi and San ethnic groups in southern Africa.

This powerful plant has versatile effects – traditionally, small amounts are chewed by the indigenous throughout the day to boost energy and stave off hunger and thirst during work, while larger amounts are chewed, smoked, used as a tincture, or brewed in a tea on other occasions for enjoying the relaxing, narcotic sensations it induces. It also enhances tactile sensitivity and is a known libido booster.

In more recent times, dried kanna is pulverized and then chewed (with chewing gum) or snuffed, on its own or in a rapé blend. Insufflating kanna rapé creates a euphoric stimulation, removes stress, enhances mood, boosts empathy, and facilitates a deep connection with the environment. After some time, these effects turn into a calm, grounded state of relaxation.

What to watch out for when using Rapé Kanna?

Mesembrine, the most important alkaloid present in kanna, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). As such, it may not be combined with other SSRIs (certain depression medications such as Seroxat or Prozac) or monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as Peganum harmala, Banisteriopsis caapi, passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), or other substances rich in these alkaloids. Mixing these could lead to a negative biochemical interaction and result in serious health complications, such as serotonin syndrome.