Chewing Kanna – A Traditional Practice in Modern Times

Chewing kanna has deep roots that go back hundreds of years in South Africa. This succulent plant was chewed by tribes to help them stay alert and connected during long hunts. Even today, people remain curious about how kanna chewing works and why it has stayed popular across generations.

Did you know the name “kanna” itself translates to “something to chew”? That fact alone shows how important chewing has always been in its story. Keep reading to learn how this practice has moved into modern life.

What Is Kanna and Why Do Some People Chew It?

Kanna, or Sceletium tortuosum, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. Indigenous tribes first consumed its leaves and stems to feel more grounded, connected, and uplifted. Chewing supported steady energy during travel and rituals. This practice became one of the oldest ways of experiencing the plant.

Traditionally, people fermented the leaves and stems before chewing, although raw chewing also occurred. Fermentation softened the taste and made the active compounds easier to absorb. The chewing method is directly linked to kanna’s cultural roots and its place in traditional South African medicine.

How Fermentation Prepares Kanna for Chewing

Fermentation became a key step in preparing kanna for chewing. After harvest, the leaves and stems were crushed and left in an airtight container to ferment before drying. This reduced harsh acids, making it smoother to consume. People valued fermented kanna because it delivered steadier effects, better flavor, and more grounded energy compared to raw material.

Kanna Chewing vs. Modern Kanna Chews

Traditional kanna chewing uses fermented leaves and stems, letting active compounds absorb directly in your mouth for quicker effects. This method connects to traditional South African medicine and its long history.

Modern options like gummy chews and chocolate chews rely on kanna extract. These edibles pass through the digestive system, offering steady results, longer-lasting mood support, and consistent dosing with natural flavors.

What Type of Kanna Is Used for Chewing?

When you chew kanna, you are consuming a succulent plant native to South Africa. The kanna plant belongs to the genus Sceletium, known for active compounds that influence the central nervous system. Fermentation has been the most common method before chewing, but raw preparations exist as well.

Fermented vs. Non-Fermented Kanna

Fermented kanna goes through a process that breaks down oxalic acid while keeping important alkaloids like mesembrine intact. This makes it smoother, easier to chew, and more effective for many people. Consumers often report that fermented kanna provides steadier mood support, grounded energy, and a more pleasant experience overall. Non-fermented or raw kanna, while still usable, can taste harsher and may not deliver the same positive effects as its fermented counterpart.

Why Fermented Kanna Is Preferred

You will often find fermented kanna recommended because it boosts the bioavailability of active compounds. This means your body absorbs them better. Fermentation also lessens irritation that some people may feel when chewing fresh plant matter, making it the preferred choice for consistent positive effects and mood enhancement.

Potency of Chewing Kanna

Potency means the strength of effects you feel when consuming the kanna plant. Kanna chewing lets active compounds like mesembrine absorb in your mouth, giving you steady results. This method connects to traditional South African medicine and provides positive mood support and grounded energy without the stronger impact of high-potency kanna extract or tinctures.

How Alkaloids Are Absorbed Through Chewing

When you chew kanna, alkaloids such as mesembrine move through the mucous membranes in your mouth. They enter your bloodstream faster than when digested, which supports mood enhancement and mental clarity. This makes chewing a reliable herbal remedy for those who want natural effects.

How Strength Compares to Edibles, Teas, or Extracts

Chewing often gives a balanced and steady experience, but effects are usually milder compared to extract-infused products.

• Edibles Last Longer. Kanna gummies or chocolates use kanna extract and take longer to work than chewing raw or fermented kanna. Edibles must pass through the digestive system, but effects can last longer than chewing.
• Teas Feel Lighter. Kanna teas often feel gentler, promoting relaxation and mild positive effects compared to kanna chewing.
• Extracts Work Faster. Tinctures or high-potency kanna extract act quickly. Effects fade sooner than chewing, but they deliver more intense mood support and acute effects.

Kanna Chewing Effects – What to Expect

When you chew kanna, you feel steady effects that work with your body and mind. The active compounds support your central nervous system. Depending on your dose, you may notice positive mood, mental clarity, or grounded energy.

Uplifted Mood and Calm Energy

At low doses, effects from chewing feel like a natural mood booster. You may gain calm energy and mental clarity without jitters. Many consume amounts in this range for social ease and steady focus.

Relaxation at Higher Amounts

A higher dose often brings deeper relaxation and mood enhancement. Your body’s reaction may feel heavier with fewer negative thoughts. These effects usually last for several hours.

Social Connection and Engagement

Many claim that kanna can also make you feel more open and engaged. You may find it easier to talk, laugh, and share experiences. This grounded energy supports positive social interactions and is why many people still enjoy chewing it today.

How Much Kanna Should I Chew?

When chewing on kanna made from dried, fermented material, the amount taken affects how you feel. A small amount brings subtle clarity, while larger amounts create deeper relaxation. Beginners should start with a lighter range to see how their body responds. Here are some common dose ranges.

• Microdose (Low Dose: 50–100 mg). Often gives a subtle mood lift, calm focus, or easy social energy.
• Moderate Dose (200–400 mg). Brings a noticeable uplifted mood, promoting relaxation and increased sociability.
• Strong Dose (500–1,000 mg+). Can feel sedating, deeply relaxing, or mildly euphoric. Traditionally used for stronger relief.

How Long to Chew Kanna?

The time you chew kanna affects how well the alkaloids are released into your saliva and absorbed. Timing matters because it shapes the strength and duration of your experience. Fermented kanna usually works best when chewed with patience. Here are the common approaches people use to get the full benefits from this traditional herbal remedy.

• Typical Range (10–20 minutes). This is usually enough time for alkaloids to absorb.
• Extended Chew (20–30 minutes). Extended chew sessions can create stronger and longer effects, though the taste may become bitter for some.
• After Chewing. The plant material is spat out or swallowed. Swallowing may extend the effects slightly but may cause mild digestive discomfort.

How Long Do the Effects Last from Kanna Chewing?

When you chew kanna, the effects generally last 4 to 6 hours. A low dose may feel lighter and fade sooner, while a high dose can bring stronger mood support that lingers longer. Your body’s reaction depends on how much you consume and whether you chew on an empty stomach or after eating.

Other Ways to Take Kanna

Besides chewing, you can consume kanna in various forms that fit your lifestyle. These options use kanna extract or dried plant medicines and are often blended with natural flavors for easier intake. Popular choices include:

• Kanna powders
• Kanna tinctures
• Kanna teas or drinks
• Kanna edibles like gummies and chocolate
• Kanna capsules

Is Kanna Chewing Safe?

Chewing kanna is generally well-tolerated by healthy adults when consumed in small to moderate amounts. Some people may feel mild side effects like queasiness, headache, or stomach discomfort if taken on an empty stomach or in a high dose. Avoid mixing with prescription medications that affect the central nervous system. Always listen to your body’s reaction.

Try Chewable Kanna Edibles by Cheef Botanicals

You can enjoy organic kanna in a clean, chewable form with Youphoria edibles from Cheef Botanicals. These blends use organic kanna extract with guarana and natural flavors. Vegan and gluten-free, they give you steady mood support and mental clarity without artificial additives. Each option offers consistent dosing for healthy individuals seeking positive effects.

• Mixed Citrus Kanna Gummies. Crisp lemon and tangerine with organic and natural flavors.
• Mixed Berry Kanna Gummies. Sweet raspberry and blueberry daily chews.
• Kanna Chocolate Gems. Smooth plant-based chocolate with organic kanna extract.

FAQs – Kanna Chewing

What does fermented kanna taste like?

Fermented kanna often tastes earthy and slightly bitter. The process smooths the flavor compared to raw, unfermented plant material. Many people find it easier to chew and more pleasant overall.

Can you chew kanna daily?

Yes, healthy adults can chew small amounts daily. It is best to start with a low dose and watch your body’s reaction. Avoid combining with prescription medications or if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Is kanna chewing still popular today?

Yes, kanna chewing remains practiced today. Some prefer the traditional method, while others choose modern kanna supplements like Cheef Botanical's gummies or chocolate gems. Both ways give consistent mood support and positive effects.

What makes a high-potency kanna extract different from chewing fermented kanna?

A high-potency kanna extract is concentrated, meaning the active alkaloids like mesembrine are delivered in stronger amounts with less product, often producing faster and more noticeable results. In contrast, chewing fermented kanna provides a slower release as the alkaloids are absorbed gradually through the mouth, leading to a more traditional, steady experience. Extracts offer convenience and intensity, while fermented kanna delivers a milder, drawn-out effect closer to its traditional use.

Can kanna chewing help relieve anxiety?

Kanna chewing may support calmness and mood balance. Some people claim it calms anxious feelings; however, diagnosing and addressing clinical anxiety requires a professional healthcare provider.

Are kanna supplements safe to take with prescription medications?

If you are on prescription medications, talk with your healthcare provider before taking kanna supplements. Some products may interact with other substances in your system. It is best to stay cautious and follow professional advice.

Final Thoughts on Kanna Chewing

Kanna chewing has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to reduce stress and support a positive mood. It also promotes mental clarity and grounded energy, making it a simple way to experience Sceletium tortuosum. Today, modern options such as gummies and chocolate gems made with kanna extract give consistent and steady results.

Cheef Botanicals offers premium kanna supplements with organic and natural flavors. You can incorporate kanna into daily chews to elevate mood or improve focus. While more research is needed, consult a healthcare provider before adding any herbal supplement.