Kanna vs. Kava: What are these herbs and how do they differ?

Learning Leaf | Lifestyle
October 22, 2024
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Kanna and Kava, two plants that have grown in popularity due to their benefits such as promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and enhancing mood. However, many are left wondering how these two herbs compare, how they work, and which one might be a better fit for their unique wellness journey. Understanding the differences and similarities between Kanna and Kava is key to choosing the right approach.

Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or searching for a natural way to elevate your mood, Kanna and Kava offer unique benefits for relaxation and stress relief. Although these herbs have recently gained popularity in the USA, they have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to promote a sense of well-being and connection with nature. While both offer calming effects, they differ in origin, usage, and how they interact with the body. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know before exploring the world of Kanna and Kava, and lend some real world insight from our products experts.

START SLOW

Consult your physician before trying new wellness products, and always start with a low dose. Allow plenty of time to feel the effects. Remember, start “Low and Slow”. Find a Turning Leaf Shop near you for more information.

Bodhi Bubbles is a Team pick for Kanna beverages It's unique formula also includes other beneficial ingredients such as Magnesium, L-Threonate, Tulsi Holy Basil, Damiana, Gotu Kola, and Lions Mane Mushrooms. All are extremely beneficial to overall body and mind wellness.

What is Kanna?

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant traditionally used by South African tribes to treat inflammation, pain (including abdominal and tooth pain), and alleviate stress. Kanna’s effectiveness comes from its active compounds, known as alkaloids, which interact with the central nervous system to enhance mood and calm the mind.

There are several ways to consume Kanna. Traditionally, the fermented leaves were chewed, but modern methods have made it more accessible. Today, you can find Kanna in capsules, tinctures, and beverages, making it easier than ever to enjoy its benefits without the need to source and prepare the raw plant. 

“Start low before you aim high! Check how much your dose is before ingesting beverages and edibles. This can help you learn what works best for your body without having to experience any negative effects.”

Kate G.

Hiring Manager, Turning Leaf

Kanna Tips from the Experts

Here’s what our team of experienced Kanna users have to say about dosing Kanna, what Kanna feels like, recommendations for a beginner, and their favorite Kanna infused products.

New to Kanna?

“Start low before you aim high! Check how much your dose is before ingesting beverages and edibles. This can help you learn what works best for your body without having to experience any negative effects.” ~Kate, TL Hiring Manager (& former Team Member)

“Kanna is similar [to kava], once you use it consistently is when you can feel the benefits.” ~Alexis, Bismarck Store Manager 

What Does Kanna Feel Like?

“Kanna is said to be nature’s ‘MDMA,’…Usually Kanna just helps take the edge off and lighten up the mood.” ~Alexis

Kanna Beverages We Enjoy Drinking

“I really enjoy Bodhi Bubbles Enlightening Beverage. It also contains Magnesium, L-Threonate, Tulsi Holy Basil, Damiana, Gotu Kola, and Lions Mane Mushrooms. All are extremely beneficial to overall body and mind wellness.” ~Alexis

Kava beverages like Leilo and Mitra9 come highly recommended from our Team Members

What is Kava?

Kava (Piper methysticum) is derived from the root of a plant native to the Pacific Islands. Traditionally, the root is crushed and mixed with water to create a drink that induces feelings of relaxation, mild euphoria, and drowsiness (Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 2024). Kava can also cause a numbing sensation in the mouth and throat, and may slightly suppress appetite.

“With kava, it is important to know that you will feel full benefits after consuming it a few times. So trying the kava seltzers 2-3 days in a row and having it built up in your system really makes a difference.”

Alexis N.

Bismarck Store Manager, Turning Leaf

Kava Tips from the Experts

“I love Mitra-9 kava seltzers or RelaxPak Drink Packets. I truly feel a great level of body relaxation and all-over wellness when drinking them…KavaKazees also has an awesome Kava Shot & Kava Gummies which are an awesome addition throughout the day!” ~Alexis

New to Kava?

“With kava, it is important to know that you will feel full benefits after consuming it a few times. So trying the kava seltzers 2-3 days in a row and having it built up in your system really makes a difference.” ~Alexis

What Does Kava Feel Like?

“Kava has become a personal staple in group settings. I barely drink alcohol, and kava gives me the same elevated and energetic feeling without the hangover I generally tend to avoid.” ~Kate

Kava Drinks We Enjoy Drinking

“Leilo does a great job at serving up quality kava beverages! The flavor of the kava root is much more subtle than other brands I’ve tried without sacrificing potency of the effects.” ~Kate

“I love Mitra-9 kava seltzers or RelaxPak Drink Packets. I truly feel a great level of body relaxation and all-over wellness when drinking them…KavaKazees also has an awesome Kava Shot & Kava Gummies which are an awesome addition throughout the day!” ~Alexis

Key Differences Between Kanna & Kava

Although both Kanna and Kava promote relaxation and reduce stress, their effects and how they work in the body are quite different:

  • Kanna: Primarily affects the central nervous system by inhibiting serotonin reuptake, similar to how some antidepressants work. It elevates mood and can help reduce inflammation.
  • Kava: Processed mainly in the gut and liver, Kava’s effects are more similar to alcohol. It sedates both the mind and body, making it ideal for unwinding at the end of the day.
“Kava has become a personal staple in group settings. I barely drink alcohol, and kava gives me the same elevated and energetic feeling without the hangover I generally tend to avoid.”

Kate G.

Hiring Manager, Turning Leaf

Takeaways From Our Product Experts

“Products and brands can all be different so it is important to note that it is important to do your research and make sure you are consuming quality products and making sure you are consuming them properly. If using ground kava, you need to steep and strain the kava and kavalactones out and avoid consuming the fibers remaining from the kava plant.” ~Alexis

“We all have our own physiologic distinctiveness when it comes to trying alternatives. Trying them on your own is the best way to see if it works for YOU. Ask for samples at your local store, we love to give an opportunity for people to test what might work for them!”~Kate

Finding High-Quality Kanna and Kava Products

Now that you understand the key differences between Kanna and Kava, you can decide which is best for your needs. Whether you’re seeking to elevate your mood or experience deep relaxation, it’s essential to choose high-quality products from trusted suppliers. 

At Turning Leaf, we pride ourselves on offering clean, alternative wellness products. Visit a store near you, where our knowledgeable staff can help you find the right product for you and answer any questions about Kanna, Kava, and more.