Kanna

Seeds: 10  / Botanical name: Sceletium tortuosum

A calming magical plant and popular indulgence from South Africa

This small succulent holds many fascinating properties. The Kanna plant, belonging to the Aizoaceae family, has been used by people in South Africa for centuries. It is also known as Kougoed (chewing gum). This term was coined by the Dutch, who occupied South Africa and also enjoyed Kanna. The fresh leaves are highly irritating, but fermented and dried, it is still considered a traditional remedy and medicinal plant. The alkaloids it contains affect the serotonin system in the brain, producing effects ranging from calming to euphoric, and even visions, depending on the dosage. Therefore, it has been and continues to be used to treat stress, anxiety, and depression. Traditionally, it is snuffed, burned as incense, and chewed. It is also becoming increasingly popular in the Western world and is available in the form of tea, powder, or capsules. Its leaves are characteristically fleshy, elliptical, and pointed for a succulent. The flowers are delicately petaled with a 
soft pale yellow/salmon color and bloom throughout the summer. This makes it very suitable as an ornamental plant. 

Natural habitat: South Africa, in the region known as Kannaland.