Kanna vs Kava: Which Natural Mood Booster Is Right for You?

Kanna vs Kava is a common comparison among people exploring natural mood enhancers or herbal alternatives for stress relief.

Both kanna and kava have earned reputations as plant-based tools for mental wellness. But they work differently, feel different, and suit different needs. So let’s break it down.

What Is Kanna?

Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant native to South Africa, traditionally used for mood support, emotional resilience, and calm focus. Its effects range from mood elevation to anxiety relief, depending on the dosage and type of extract used. It is available from vendors such as Ultrakanna:

• Commonly used as a supplement, tea, or tincture. Read the kanna tea guide here.
• Popular for enhancing mood, calm, and sociability
• May support mental clarity and motivation

Key Compounds: Mesembrine and mesembrenone, which influence serotonin and other mood-related neurotransmitters.

Typical Onset: 30–60 minutes when taken orally

Best For:

• People with anxious thoughts but needing energy and focus
• Those seeking an alternative to synthetic mood boosters

More detailed information here – what is kanna?

What Is Kava?

Kava (Piper methysticum) is a root from the South Pacific, traditionally used in ceremonial and social settings to promote deep relaxation and tranquility. It is available from vendors such as LiftMode:

LiftMode also provides kanna. See how they compare with other vendors – Ultrakanna vs LiftMode.

• Consumed as a tea, capsule, or drink made from powdered root
• Commonly used for stress reduction and sleep support
• Known for muscle relaxation and a “melting” body feel

Key Compounds: Kavalactones, which affect GABA receptors (the brain’s calming system)

Typical Onset: 20–40 minutes after consumption

Best For:

• People dealing with physical tension, insomnia, or overwhelm
• Those looking to unwind or support better sleep

Kanna vs Kava – How Do They Feel Different?

Kanna:

• Light, uplifting energy
• Enhanced connection and social openness
• Can increase focus and motivation
• Some users describe a gentle glow or emotional reset

Kava:

• Heavy, calming relaxation
• More physical than mental (muscle relaxing, tension-reducing)
• May impair coordination in higher doses
• Often leaves the user ready to rest or sleep

Safety & Side Effects of Kanna vs Kava

Kanna:

• Generally well-tolerated in moderate doses
• High doses may cause nausea or mild headaches
• Should not be mixed with SSRIs or other serotonin-affecting medications

Kava:

• Effective in short-term use but may affect the liver with long-term or heavy use
• Not recommended with alcohol or other depressants
• Can cause drowsiness

Can You Combine Them?

It’s not common to combine kanna and kava, as their effects can conflict. Kanna may raise energy, while kava promotes sedation. Always test one at a time first and consult a health professional if combining herbs.

Kava vs Kanna – Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Kanna if you want:

• A lift in mood or energy
• Calm focus during the day
• Social ease or creative motivation

Choose Kava if you want:

• To wind down after a stressful day
• Help falling asleep or relaxing tense muscles
• A natural way to feel calm without stimulating effects

Where to Buy Kanna or Kava?

Kanna is available in stores such as Ultrakanna. We have put together a vendor list as a trusted resource to compare products and learn more – where to buy kanna near me.

Kava is available in many health stores like Liftmode. Always look for third-party lab-tested products.

In the end, understanding kanna vs kava comes down to knowing what you want—calm, clarity, or something in between.

Further reading:

• How does kanna compare to other natural mood boosters?
• Best herbs for mental clarity and focus