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Does kanna have side effects? Here's what research says
Have you ever come across the plant called Sceletium tortuosum, also known as kanna, and found yourself curious about whether it has any side effects? It’s definitely worth looking into further. Keep reading to discover what specific negative effects might arise and how you can avoid them. What do scientific studies tell us about this?
The Sceletium tortuosum plant can sometimes lead to side effects, but these are relatively uncommon and typically only occur with improper use. Let’s explore the specific adverse effects and ways to prevent them. We’ll also examine what expert studies have to say on the matter.
## Side Effects
Kanna is widely used for its ability to improve mood and reduce anxiety. It comes in different forms, including powder, capsules, and strong extracts. Like any supplement, kanna can have side effects, particularly when taken in large amounts or without proper guidance.
### Common Side Effects
1. **Headaches and Nausea**: These are fairly common, especially at higher doses of kanna.
2. **Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate**: Some users report experiencing these symptoms, likely due to kanna’s stimulating effects on serotonin and other neurotransmitters.
3. **Dizziness and Lightheadedness**: These symptoms may occur, possibly as a result of changes in blood pressure.
4. **Dry Mouth and Gastrointestinal Discomfort**: These issues might arise, especially when first starting out or with higher doses.
5. **Insomnia and Disturbed Sleep**: While some people find kanna helps them sleep better, others experience difficulty sleeping.
### Serious Side Effects
There is a possibility of serotonin syndrome. When used alongside other serotonin-modulating drugs, such as SSRIs, there is a risk of serotonin syndrome. This is a serious condition caused by excessive serotonin activity in the nervous system.
## Precautions
- **Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women**: Kanna should not be used due to insufficient safety data.
- **Individuals with Cardiovascular Issues or Psychological Conditions**: Those with these conditions should use kanna cautiously and consult healthcare providers before beginning use.
- **Starting Dose**: It’s recommended to begin with lower doses to assess tolerance and avoid potential adverse effects.
## Scientific Research and Mechanisms
Research highlights kanna’s role in boosting mood and cognitive function. It acts similarly to a natural SSRI and inhibits PDE4, an enzyme involved in regulating mood and inflammation. These actions increase serotonin and other neurotransmitters, which are beneficial for mood regulation and stress response.
In addition, kanna shows promise in enhancing cognitive functions like memory and focus, likely due to its impact on neurotransmitter levels and synaptic plasticity.
## Usage Advice
For newcomers, or indeed for all users, the following recommendations should be kept in mind:
- **Start with a Low Dose**: Begin with a smaller amount to see how your body responds.
- **Consult Healthcare Providers**: Especially if you’re on medication, as there could be potential interactions, particularly with psychiatric medications.
- **Avoid Continuous Use**: Do not use it continuously for long periods to prevent tolerance buildup.
Kanna’s effects and benefits continue to be studied. Current research supports its use for anxiety, stress reduction, and cognitive enhancement, but more comprehensive clinical trials are needed to fully understand its potential and safety profile.
Overall, while kanna can offer significant benefits, it’s crucial to use it responsibly and be aware of potential side effects.
**Tip**: If you’re familiar with kratom, you might be interested in comparing kratom and kanna, as these plants share some similarities.
## Potential Interactions
### Caffeine-Containing Beverages
Kanna can heighten the stimulating effects of caffeine. This might lead to heart palpitations, high blood pressure, and anxiety. Be mindful of your caffeine intake when using kanna.
Energy drinks, which contain high levels of caffeine and other stimulants, can amplify the effects of kanna and increase the risk of side effects.
### Alcohol
Mixing alcohol with kanna can enhance the sedative effects of both. This can make you extremely drowsy, slow your reaction times, and impair your concentration. Drink alcohol in moderation and be cautious.
### Foods High in Tyramine
Aged cheeses and cured meats can affect serotonin levels. Although there isn’t much evidence suggesting kanna interacts with tyramine, it’s wise to be cautious and monitor your reactions.
Fermented foods like sauerkraut or soy sauce contain high levels of tyramine and may potentially influence the effects of kanna.
### Citrus Juices
Grapefruit juice can alter how many drugs and herbal supplements are absorbed and metabolized in your body. This might impact how kanna works.
## Key Takeaways
While research shows that kanna can significantly improve mood and reduce anxiety, it’s essential to use it responsibly. Side effects such as headaches, nausea, increased blood pressure, and more are primarily associated with high doses or improper use.
Although serious side effects like serotonin syndrome are rare, caution is necessary, especially if you’re taking other medications. It’s advisable to start with low doses and consult a specialist about usage to avoid possible interactions and side effects.
**Sources**:
- Examine: Research Breakdown on Kanna
- NCBI: Sceletium Tortuosum, Commonly Known As Kanna
- ACS Lab: Kanna Psychoactive Alkaloids
- WebMD: Sceletium