Low-growing succulent of southern Africa whose fermented leaves and stems contain mesembrine — a serotonin reuptake inhibitor and mild mood-lifter. Used for at least three centuries by the Khoekhoe and San peoples.
ECOLOGY & HABITAT
Hardy succulent of arid Karoo and Namaqualand habitats in southern Africa.
Distribution
South AfricaNamibia
INDIGENOUS NAMES
The names this organism has been given by the cultures that have lived alongside it. Each carries an entire relationship — what is sacred is never simply translated.
- KannaKhoekhoegowab · Khoekhoe (San and Khoekhoe peoples)
- KougoedAfrikaans (from Khoe)"Something to chew"
TRADITIONAL USE
- Traditionally chewed by Khoekhoe and San peoples for centuries to elevate mood, reduce thirst on long hunts, and aid social gatherings
CULTURAL CONTEXT
Kanna is one of the gentler entheogens — its effect is closer to a clear, warm mood lift than a full visionary state. Modern formulations have entered the supplement market as a natural anxiolytic.
REFERENCES
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- Smith 1996
- Gericke & Viljoen 2008 DOI
