Category: Glossary
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Delta-mesembrenone
Definition:Delta-mesembrenone is one of the lesser-known alkaloids found in the kanna plant (Sceletium tortuosum), structurally related to mesembrine and mesembrenone. While research is limited, it’s believed to contribute to kanna’s…
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Kougoed
Definition:Kougoed (pronounced kō-ghut) is the traditional name for fermented Sceletium tortuosum, used by indigenous Khoi and San peoples of South Africa. The term means “something to chew” in Afrikaans. Traditionally,…
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Zembrin
Zembrin® is a patented, standardized extract of Sceletium tortuosum (kanna), clinically studied for its mood-enhancing and cognitive effects. It contains a balanced ratio of mesembrenone and other active alkaloids and…
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Mesembrenone
Definition:Mesembrenone is one of the primary alkaloids found in Sceletium tortuosum (kanna). It is known for its ability to inhibit serotonin reuptake (SRI) and phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4), making it a key…
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Kanna
Definition:Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant native to South Africa, historically used by the Khoisan people to ease stress, elevate mood, and improve sociability. It contains active alkaloids like…
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Entactogen
Definition:An entactogen is a type of psychoactive compound that promotes emotional openness, empathy, and a sense of connectedness with oneself or others. The term comes from Greek roots meaning “to…
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SRI
Definition:SRI stands for Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor—a broader term than SSRI. While SSRIs specifically target serotonin, SRIs can include compounds that block serotonin reuptake as well as those that may also…
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SSRI
Definition:SSRI stands for Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor—a class of medications commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety. They work by blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, making more…
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VMAT-2
Definition:VMAT-2 (vesicular monoamine transporter 2) is a protein that moves neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine into synaptic vesicles so they can be stored and later released into the brain’s…
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PDE-4 Inhibition
Definition:PDE-4 inhibition refers to the blocking of the enzyme phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4), which is responsible for breaking down cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, compounds like…