Opening the Heart with Kanna

Kanna, also known as Sceletium tortuosum, is a plant native to South Africa that has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures for its mood-enhancing properties. One of the effects of Kanna is its ability to soften the heart, allowing individuals to feel more emotionally open and connected with others.

The active compounds in Kanna work by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of happiness, well-being, and emotional connection. Kanna has also been shown to have mild sedative effects, which can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Many individuals who use Kanna report feeling more open and empathetic towards others, as well as more willing to communicate their feelings and emotions. This can lead to improved relationships, both romantic and platonic, as individuals feel more connected and understanding towards others.

Kanna is typically consumed by chewing the leaves, brewing the leaves into a tea, or smoking it. It is also available in supplement form, which can provide a standardized dose of the active compounds. At Rosebud, we offer it in a botanical confection, in a Gummy, along with Valerian, Rose and Pomegranate, 

While Kanna is generally considered safe when used as directed, it can have interactions with certain medications and may cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, or gastrointestinal upset. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider before using Kanna, particularly if you have a medical condition or are taking medication.

Kanna is a plant that has been used for centuries for its mood-enhancing properties, including its ability to soften the heart and promote emotional openness. While it may have potential benefits for some individuals, it's important to use caution and talk to a healthcare provider before using Kanna or any other supplement. As with any substance, it's also important to use it responsibly and in moderation.

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Heart: Kanna, Rose and Pomegranate Gummies

Regular price $28.00

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Frequently asked

What is kanna and where does it come from?

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant native to South Africa, traditionally used for centuries by the San and Khoikhoi peoples for its mood-elevating and stress-relieving qualities. Its effects are attributed to mesembrine-type alkaloids, which interact with serotonin pathways in the brain.

How does kanna help open the heart emotionally?

Kanna's alkaloids inhibit the serotonin transporter (SERT), increasing serotonin availability. Because serotonin is closely tied to mood, calm, and a sense of well-being, many people describe feeling softer, more emotionally open, and more able to connect and communicate. Its mild calming effect can also ease the guardedness that anxiety creates.

Is kanna safe to use?

Kanna is generally considered well-tolerated when used as directed, though reported side effects can include headache, mild nausea, or irritability. It may interact with certain medications, especially antidepressants such as SSRIs. Talk with your healthcare provider before using kanna, particularly if you take medication or have a health condition.

How do you take kanna?

Traditionally kanna is chewed, brewed as a tea, or fermented. Today it is commonly taken as a standardized supplement. At Rosebud Woman, we offer it in a botanical confection, our Heart gummy, alongside valerian, rose, and pomegranate for a gentle, heart-opening ritual.

References

1. A Chewable Cure "Kanna": Biological and Pharmaceutical Properties of Sceletium tortuosum— Molecules (PubMed Central)
2. Sceletium tortuosum: A review on its phytochemistry, pharmacokinetics, biological, pre-clinical and clinical activities— Journal of Ethnopharmacology (ScienceDirect)
3. Serotonin: What Is It, Function & Levels— Cleveland Clinic

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