The timeless journey of the canna plant
Canna (Sceletium tortuosum) is a succulent plant that grows in the arid soil of remote South Africa. With vibrant white and yellow flowers, this succulent has been treasured for centuries by the indigenous San and Khoikhoi peoples of South Africa. Here, we delve deeper into the allure of canna, from its history to modern scientific exploration.
Where did Kanna come from?
Kanna is native to the arid Karoo region of southern and western Africa, and has a long history of traditional use among the indigenous San and Khoikhoi peoples of South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. Currently, most of the kanna extracts on the American and European markets are grown in South Africa.
Kanna's Characteristics and Indigenous Connection
Canna, which grows naturally in the arid regions of South Africa, has offered a variety of health benefits in addition to its beautiful appearance. It has been used to recover from fatigue during hunting and gathering, for shamanic spiritual activities, and for daily care. It has been loved as a "plant of happiness" by the indigenous Khoikhoi and San people of South Africa.
For example, San mothers mixed kanna into their babies' breast milk to soothe stomach aches, and men who went out hunting chewed fermented and dried kanna during the day to quell hunger and thirst and to increase stamina, positive mood and mental focus. Thus, the traditions of the canna plant are deeply rooted in the indigenous people of South Africa and have been carefully passed down throughout history.
Introduction to Japan
The canna plant was introduced to Europe in 1685 through a painting by Simon van der Stel, where it quickly gained attention as a "ginseng-like herb." Documents from European traders heading to Asia also show that the canna plant left Africa and was traded in Japan in the 1700s.
Kanna was popular for its aphrodisiac properties, and traders reportedly made large profits from it. In fact, our Japanese ancestors had already encountered the canna plant once before.
Scientific Research on Kanna
Recent scientific studies have shown that The chemical and biological properties of kanna (scientific name: Sceletium tortuosum) have been thoroughly investigated. Many research papers have been published on research sites such as PubMed. In particular, many papers suggest that the main components of kanna, alkaloids (mesembrine, mesemboline, tortuosine, etc.), act on serotonin receptors in the brain, improving mood and reducing anxiety.
Serotonin is known as the "happiness hormone" and is deeply involved in mental balance and a sense of well-being. These ingredients are attracting a great deal of attention in the fields of medicine and complementary treatment, as mental health has become one of the issues facing modern society.
Kanna's Modern Place
Recent scientific research has revealed that the ancient plant Kanna continues to have a deep connection with our lives and health. This plant with a long history is also attracting many people from the perspective of the connection between humans and nature, and the bridge between tradition and science.
Canna has contributed to our minds and bodies in many ways, going beyond the scope of succulents. Its value since ancient times remains unchanged today, but its potential is expanding further as people today seek to adapt to the excessive stress of modern society.
More and more people around the world, including in Japan, will enjoy the benefits of this plant and join us on this mysterious journey. The story of canna is deeply connected to our own story, and I hope that this relationship will continue in the future. Let's continue to walk together on canna's mysterious journey.
