[1] It is known as the Namaqua skeletonfig, kanna, channa, kougoed (kauwgoed/ 'kougoed', prepared from 'fermenting' M. tortuosum[2])—which literally means, 'chew(able) things' or 'something to chew'.

The dried plant was chewed with the saliva swallowed, but it has also been prepared in various forms, including gel caps, teas, tinctures, snuff, and smoked.

The traditionally prepared dried plant was often chewed and the saliva swallowed, but it has also been made into gel caps, teas and tinctures.

[6] M. tortuosum is in traditional medicine to reduce stress and depression, relieve pain and alleviate hunger.

[6] Traditional and contemporary methods of preparation serve to reduce levels of potentially harmful oxalates found in M.

[6] M. tortuosum is found in 50 subpopulations in the Cape provinces from Namaqualand to Montagu and Aberdeen; in karroid habitat.