Wednesday, October 6, 2010

The Bushmen have a Cannabis enhancing plant?

South African Bushmen have been chewing kanna (Sceletium tortuosum) for hundreds of years to reduce stress, relieve hunger and elevate their moods. Now there are plans to market the exotic plant worldwide as a new over-the-counter drug

Aside from its potential health benefits and mood-altering qualities, the plant is also well known for its ability to enhance the effects of other psychoactive drugs - particularly cannabis. (From MNN)

Ben-Erik Van Wyk, a professor of botany and plantbiotechnology at the University of Johannesburg, said he's extensively researched the plant and found no ill effects or evidence of dependency. (Clearly the man hasn't tried hard enough!)

When chewed, the plant gives a slight head rush, which is similar to the effect of smoking a cigarette, Van Wyk said.

"It's a product with huge potential," he said. "Anyone who has chewed it and has experienced the sensation of the plant definitely knows there's something happening." (from Psyorg)

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