What people say kanna feels like
Kanna's main compound, mesembrine, acts on serotonin, and that shows in how people describe it. The common themes:
- A lifted mood. A warm, upbeat feeling rather than a buzz.
- Easier conversation. Less self-conscious, more talkative. This is why kanna has a reputation as the dinner-party drink.
- Calm but clear. Relaxed without the heavy body feel of kava or the fog of alcohol.
Experiences vary from person to person, and the amount matters a lot. Ready-to-drink cans are on the gentle end; concentrated extracts are much stronger.
Kanna effects at different amounts
- A drink or light serving: the social, upbeat feeling most people are after.
- Larger amounts: some people report feeling drowsy or spacey instead, and side effects become more likely.
Start with one can, and don't stack servings.
How long does kanna take to kick in?
Most people say they notice kanna within about 30 minutes to an hour of drinking it. Give it the full hour before deciding on a second.
How long does kanna last?
People commonly describe the effects lasting one to three hours, fading gradually rather than wearing off suddenly.
Kanna side effects
Most reported side effects are mild and more common at larger amounts:
- Headache
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
Who should skip kanna
- Anyone on antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs) or other mood medication. Kanna acts on serotonin too, and combining them can push serotonin too high.
- Anyone taking sedatives, sleep aids or stimulants, without checking with a doctor first.
- Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Anyone under 21.
And don't mix kanna with alcohol.
Kanna vs. kava effects
Kava is the calm, end-of-day drink: relaxed body, quiet evening. Kanna is the social one: brighter mood, easy conversation. Kava vs. kanna compared.
The easiest way to try it
A ready-to-drink can keeps the amount consistent and hides kanna's bitter, herbal taste. Botanical Brewing Co.'s Kanna Pomegranate Fusion is one of the few on the market.
See all our picks in the best kanna drinks, or start with what kanna is.
Questions people ask
What are the effects of kanna?
People most often describe a lifted mood, easier conversation and a calm but clear head. Larger amounts can feel drowsy instead.
Does kanna get you high?
Most people don't describe it as a high. It's usually described as a mood lift and a more social, talkative feeling, gentler in drink form.
How long does kanna take to work?
Most people notice it within about 30 minutes to an hour.
How long do kanna effects last?
People commonly describe one to three hours, fading gradually.
What are the side effects of kanna?
The most commonly reported are mild: headache, upset stomach, drowsiness and dizziness, mostly at larger amounts.
Can you drink kanna with antidepressants?
No. Kanna acts on serotonin, so don't combine it with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs or other mood medication.
For adults 21+. Skip it if you take antidepressants.
