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These plants, funghi and insect illustrations
are part of my botanical oracle deck

Sceletium tortuosum | Kanna

Botanical Overview:

  • Family: Aizoaceae

  • Common Names: Kanna, Channa, Kougoed

  • Plant Type: Succulent shrub

  • Native Range: South Africa, particularly in the regions of the Western Cape

  • Key Identifiers:

    • Small, fleshy, and shrubby plant with thick, smooth, blue-green leaves

    • The plant produces small, white or yellow flowers and often has a twisting, rope-like appearance

    • It is often found in semi-arid, mountainous areas


Properties:

  • Active Compounds: Mesembrine (alkaloid), mesembrenone, and related alkaloids

  • Pharmacological Actions: Antidepressant, anxiolytic, stimulant, mood enhancer

  • Flavor Profile: Mildly bitter when chewed, with earthy and herbaceous undertones


Distribution and Habitat:

  • Found in arid and semi-arid areas in the Western and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa

  • Thrives in rocky, well-drained soils with low rainfall, often growing in mountainous areas or along riverbanks

  • Cultivated for both traditional and commercial purposes


Medicinal Uses:

  • Mood and Anxiety:

    • Traditionally used by indigenous South Africans to reduce anxiety, stress, and promote a sense of well-being

    • Known for its mood-enhancing properties and mild euphoria

  • Cognitive Enhancement: Acts as a mild cognitive enhancer, improving mental clarity and focus

  • Appetite Suppressant: Sometimes used as a natural appetite suppressant

  • Muscle Relaxant: Traditionally used to reduce muscle tension and induce relaxation

  • Anti-Inflammatory: Can provide relief for conditions related to inflammation


Psychoactive Properties and Effects:

  • Psychoactive Nature:

    • Mesembrine, the primary alkaloid, is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which can help enhance mood and reduce anxiety by increasing serotonin levels in the brain

    • The plant has stimulant effects in low doses, producing mild euphoria, heightened mood, and relaxation

    • In larger doses, it may cause altered states of consciousness, mild hallucinations, and an overall sense of tranquility or detachment from reality

  • Not Psychedelic: Though it alters mood and perception, it does not produce intense visionary experiences or full dissociation from reality


Magical Correspondences and Uses:

  • Element: Water

  • Planetary Association: Venus

  • Magical Uses:

    • Associated with relaxation, love, and emotional healing

    • Used in rituals or spells to enhance affection, foster positive emotional states, and soothe heartache

    • Used in meditation and calming rituals to promote inner peace and emotional balance

    • Often carried or worn for protection against negative emotions and stress


Folklore and Mythology:

  • Traditionally used by indigenous peoples of South Africa (such as the Khoisan) for centuries in spiritual and medicinal practices

  • Known as "Kougoed," meaning "something to chew," it was chewed to promote relaxation, relieve tension, and enhance social bonding during long journeys or communal gatherings

  • In some cultures, it is believed to enhance communication with the spirit world, often used in shamanic rituals to facilitate trance-like states and spiritual exploration

  • Sometimes regarded as a sacred plant, used in offerings or as part of traditional healing ceremonies

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