Benefits of Sceletium: What Research Suggests About Mood, Stress & Cognitive Support
Sceletium tortuosum, commonly known as Kanna, is a succulent plant native to Southern Africa with a long history of traditional use among the San and Khoikhoi peoples. Historically, it has been used to support emotional wellbeing, relaxation and resilience during times of stress.
Interest in Sceletium has grown considerably as researchers continue investigating its effects on mood regulation, stress response, cognitive function and overall neurological health.
In 1738, botanist Peter Kolbe described Kanna as:
“The greatest cheerer of the spirits and the noblest restorative in the world.”
While traditional use spans centuries, modern research is helping scientists better understand how Sceletium’s naturally occurring alkaloids may influence wellbeing.
How Sceletium May Support Emotional Balance
Research suggests that alkaloids found in Sceletium, particularly mesembrine and mesembrenone, interact with pathways involved in serotonin regulation and neurotransmitter activity. These pathways are associated with mood, emotional regulation and stress response.
Several studies have explored Sceletium’s potential role in supporting:
✓ Emotional wellbeing
✓ Stress resilience
✓ Calmness and relaxation
✓ Cognitive performance
✓ Mental clarity and focus
Although findings are promising, further human studies remain important.
What Scientific Studies Have Explored
1996 — Early Pharmacological Interest
Researchers concluded that further investigation into Sceletium alkaloids was warranted due to their potential anxiolytic and neurological properties.
Reference:
Smith MT et al. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 1996.
2008 — Effects on Mental Health Pathways
Research reviewing traditional South African medicinal plants highlighted promising antidepressant-like and neurological effects associated with plants including Sceletium.
Reference:
Stafford GI et al. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2008.
2011 — Serotonin & Neurotransmitter Activity
Studies found Sceletium alkaloids influenced serotonin transporter activity and PDE4 pathways, potentially helping explain traditional uses associated with mood support.
Reference:
Harvey AL et al. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2011.
2016 — Stress Response & Monoamine Activity
Research suggested Sceletium extracts may influence neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation and stress responses.
Reference:
Coetzee DD et al. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2016.
2022 — Anxiety, Cognition & Mood Research
Reviews concluded that existing evidence suggests potential benefits relating to anxiety support, cognitive function and mood regulation, while noting further clinical research is needed.
Reference:
Olatunji TL et al. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2022.
Emerging Research Areas
Recent investigations continue exploring possible neuroprotective properties and applications in neurological health. These findings remain early-stage and require further study.
Why Serobrine Uses Standardised Sceletium Extract
At Serobrine, we use standardised Sceletium extract to help provide consistency in active compounds.
Our formula combines:
🌿 Sceletium Extract — researched for mood and stress support
⚡ NAD+ — involved in cellular energy metabolism
🧠 Vitamin B6 — contributes to normal psychological function and neurotransmitter synthesis
Together, these ingredients are designed to support:
✓ Calmness
✓ Focus
✓ Emotional balance
✓ Daily wellbeing
Final Thoughts
Modern lifestyles often bring ongoing stress, emotional overload and mental fatigue. Supporting calmness may help create a stronger foundation for focus and wellbeing.
Because sometimes…
Calm comes before focus.
References
Smith MT et al. J Ethnopharmacol. 1996.
Stafford GI et al. J Ethnopharmacol. 2008.
Harvey AL et al. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011.
Coetzee DD et al. J Ethnopharmacol. 2016.
Olatunji TL et al. J Ethnopharmacol. 2022.
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