# Kanna vs. Kava: Effects and Taste | The Softer Hour

> Kanna vs. kava compared: how people describe each, taste, best occasions, and which one to choose.

Source: https://softerhour.com/kanna-vs-kava

Comparison

# Kanna vs. kava

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Kava is the one people reach for to unwind: relaxed body, clear head. Kanna is the one they reach for to be social: a lighter, brighter mood and easier conversation. Kava is better for the couch, kanna for the party.

|  | Kava | Kanna |
| --- | --- | --- |
| What it is | South Pacific root (*Piper methysticum*) | South African succulent (*Sceletium tortuosum*) |
| How people describe it | Relaxed, loose-shouldered, calm | Lifted mood, sociable, chatty |
| Best for | Winding down at home | Social nights |
| Taste | Earthy; canned versions are fruit-and-cream | Tart and fruity in canned form |
| Don't combine with | Alcohol | Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs) |

## Which should you choose?

- **After a long day:** kava.
- **Friends coming over:** kanna.
- **Not sure:** try each on different nights.

## Can you drink them together?

They're usually drunk on different occasions rather than together. If you take any medication, check with a doctor first, especially before trying kanna.

Try kanna **Kanna Pomegranate Fusion** from $30.60 · 4/12/24 packs

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Try kava **Kava Orange Dream** from $36

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Related: [What is kanna?](https://softerhour.com/what-is-kanna) · [Is kanna a stimulant?](https://softerhour.com/is-kanna-a-stimulant) · [Kava vs. kratom vs. kanna](https://softerhour.com/kava-vs-kratom-vs-kanna)

**Not sure which can fits?** [Take the drink finder →](https://softerhour.com/#quiz)