This is a short explainer on Ibogaine. This is the psychedelic that was mentioned in Executive Order 14401. There isn't much outside of scientific papers and even then it is much more observational studies than reporting on actual trials or practices.
Item 1
There is a west African shrub called Tabernanthe ibogda. ibogaine is extracted from the bark of that plant. The traditional use of the drug is spiritual ceremonies in central and western Africa by the Bwiti people.
The alkaloid extraction is a psychoactive drug that in small doses can act as a stimulant and in large doses that can last in the body for hours or even days.
Ibogaine attaches itself to dopamine, opioid, NMDA and serotonin neurotransmitters for a brain altering experience.
Item 2 Possible Uses
Outside of religious or spiritual use, it is being used in some countries for:
- Substance abuse treatment - making it easier to wean a person off of opiate and alcohol addictions
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Severe depression or Major Depression Disorder
According to the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies aka MAPS website, The treatment can take one to three hours to kick in and can last up to 36 hours.
Once completed, it is claimed that for substance abuse treatment the cravings are diminished or gone.
Item 3 Areas of Concern
There isn't enough clinical trials to know the details about this drug. It is banned in many countries. A lot of what is being communicated about ibogaine is from people that used the drug and advocates/promoters of the drug.
There are countries that have done some research. However they are limited in size or random controlled trials. There is a lot we don't know about this substance.
This stuff is no joke. Ibogaine can put a tremendous strain on your cardiovascular system. It can cause heart arrhythmias, seizures and it can be lethal for some people.
It isn't like LSD. You might experience and be locked in to the dark side for hours with no escape. Again, you might have to under go therapeutic preparation before using this drug.
You have to be monitored. You cannot be alone while experiencing this drug.
Item 4 Accessibility
There are some countries that have legalized it, these include:
Australia and New Zealand allows for legal ownership, sale and cultivation of plants that contain ibogaine Brazil allows for prescription use in a hospital setting.
Canada allows use of ibogaine under strict guidelines. Uruguay use is legal.
Mexico does not regulate ibogaine, making it a popular destination for Americans seeking ibogaine treatment. Costa Rica is also unregulated.
If you are planning to pack up and head to Mexico or Costa Rica, please know that the cost, experience and lack of safety can be expensive. There are always profiteers.
You might not get the medical attention and services that you need and I have deep questions about after care and support.
My Thoughts:
I think what can happen in the future is that actual scientists study the drug and are able to synthesize what works from the toxic aspects of the drug.
We are no where near that point in research. This is a high risk substance. But that is me. My opinion. Your life experience might be different.
I am not a pharmacologists or a scientist.
Still, I have real concerns about the toxicity levels that can affect the heart and the cardiovascular system.
Is this drug going to require or make space for therapy and support treatment? What kind of pre, post and aftercare would a person need to insure safety and effectiveness?
I honestly don't know. Seems like there is a hunt for a pill to be the magic cure. For a price.
At the moment, I wouldn't touch it with a 39 and haft foot pole.
My two cents that ain't worth a plug nickle.
Resources Mentioned:
World Population Review Map of Legality by Country
The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies aka MAPS is a non-profit organization that promotes the use of psychedelic drugs. There is a brief information page about ibogaine with links to the two observational studies and a section of the FAQ that talks about the drug.
Psychedelic Drugs in Mental Disorders: Current Clinical Scope and Deep Learning-Based Advanced Perspectives
Emergency Resources
The Trevor Project: Provides crisis support specifically for LGBTQ+ youth through phone (1-866-488-7386), text (START to 678-678), and online chat. Available 24/7. They also provide peer support and community.Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online. There are phone lines for those serving overseas. Visit the website to find the current status of the Veteran line and international calling options.
National Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential support 24/7. This service operates independently of the 988 service. Users can use text, chat or WhatsApp as a means of contact.
Disclaimer:
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Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health disorder.
This blog and podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this program is intended to be a substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
