Iboga, also known as ibogaine and African dream root, is a psychoactive substance that has been used in spiritual ceremonies for centuries. Ibogaine naturally occurs in the iboga plant and has a historical background of use in African spiritual ceremonies. Today we will be looking at ibogaine status all around world today.
It’s native to Central Africa, where it’s traditionally used by the Bwiti religion.
Iboga can be found in other parts of Africa and South America, but its use isn’t widespread because it’s difficult to grow successfully outside its natural habitat.
Iboga contains several alkaloids including ibogaine, tabernanthine, and coronaridine which have been used for different purposes throughout history – from treating malaria to managing and treating drug dependence and addiction.
Ibogaine Status
Ibogaine Status in Africa
Africa is home to many power plants that have been used for centuries to heal and strengthen. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about iboga.
Though it has been used in Africa for thousands of years by the Bwiti tribe, who reside primarily in Gabon and Cameroon, there are only a few countries that allow iboga use at this time:
Gabon
Cameroon
Nigeria
South Africa
Benin (also known as Dahomey)
Ivory Coast – although only when combined with other medications (such as a painkiller)
Understand why ibogaine is illegal in some countries. Recently, ibogaine therapy clinics have emerged in various countries, raising legal and mental health concerns surrounding their operation.
Ibogaine Status in Asia
In Asia:
Iboga is legal in Singapore.
Iboga is illegal in Indonesia. It’s a controlled substance and possession can lead to a prison sentence of up to 5 years or fines of up to IDR 5 million (approximately USD 400).
Iboga is illegal in Malaysia. In Malaysia, ibogaine is considered a Class A drug under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 with the maximum penalty of the death penalty by hanging as punishment for possession and distribution of the substance. The Malaysian Ministry of Health has classified ibogaine as an “extremely dangerous poison” due to its toxicity. Violations under this law could result in imprisonment for up to 20 years and/or fines up to RM100,000 (approx US$26,000).
Iboga is illegal in Thailand. According to Section 44/2523 B of the Thai Customs Act 1979, ibogaine is prohibited from entering Thailand without permission from government authorities because it has been found that it causes damage to the body systems such as the heart, nervous system, etc., which can lead us towards death if we take too much dosage than recommended by doctors or pharmacists who know about this drug very well so always follow their instructions carefully before starting any kind of treatment program with them otherwise you may lose your life because they do not want anything bad happens while taking care about their patient health.
Additionally, ibogaine ingestion can have potential adverse effects, including immediate and long-term adverse effects, and adverse interactions develop ibogaine with other psychedelic agents and prescription drugs. There is also a risk of death, especially when ibogaine is consumed with opioids or in people with existing morbidities.
Ibogaine Status in Europe
The Netherlands: The Netherlands does not prohibit ibogaine, and there are various ibogaine treatment centers available. Ibogaine clinics and treatment center in countries like the Netherlands emphasize the importance of careful dosing and monitoring to mitigate risks.
There are no exceptions for personal use or religious purposes.
Czech Republic: Ibogaine is a Schedule I drug under part 1 of the Controlled Substances Act (Zákon č. 167/1998 Sb.). It’s illegal to buy, sell, possess or use it unless you have authorization from the government.
Slovenia: Ibogaine is not specifically mentioned in Slovenian law but falls under its broader ban on substances that mimic drugs listed as controlled substances by international agreements.
Ibogaine Status in Latin America
Iboga is not legal in most countries worldwide. Iboga has a very long history of use in Africa, and it’s considered a traditional medicine there.
However, its use is not regulated by any official institutions.
In Brazil, the sale of iboga extracts and plants is controlled under the country’s law on psychotropic substances.
The only exception is when the extract or plant comes from a legal plantation authorized by the government agency responsible for regulating health matters (Anvisa).
Argentina has no specific law regulating iboga at this time; however, it could potentially be regulated under existing legislation related to cocaine-like stimulants such as cocaine base paste (base).
Ongoing clinical trials and studies are evaluating the effectiveness of ibogaine for treating addiction to opioids and other substances.
Ibogaine Status in North America
In the United States, iboga is a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that it is illegal to manufacture, sell or possess iboga without a DEA license.
It’s also illegal to use it for recreational purposes in most states.
In Canada and Mexico, iboga can be legally purchased if you have a prescription from your doctor and you live within their respective borders.
Ibogaine, derived from iboga, has shown potential in treating opioid addiction, offering transformative effects in extinguishing addiction and opioid cravings.
Ibogaine Status in Oceania
Australia
Iboga is controlled in Australia. As of July 2019, the Australian Drug Foundation does not appear to have any information about this substance on its website.
Australia’s National Drug Strategy aims to reduce alcohol and drug dependence and other drug use among Australians. Their website has a section devoted specifically to illicit drugs, including an overview of each drug, its effects, and potential harms associated with use or overdose;
a summary of the current situation regarding methamphetamine; and resources for people who wish to access help or support services related to these substances (such as treatment programs).
Ibogaine, a psychedelic substance, is being explored for treating opiate addiction, with potential to reduce opiate withdrawal symptoms and help with substance-related cravings. However, more controlled studies are needed to determine its efficacy and safety.
Ibogaine treatment is not legal in most countries worldwide
It is a controlled substance in the following countries:
Iboga can be used for religious purposes by African people only as it has been used traditionally for centuries by them as a sacrament.
Additionally, ibogaine, a derivative of iboga, is being researched and tested in clinical trials for its potential to treat opioid withdrawal.
In America: addressing opioid addiction
Iboga has been declared Schedule I under the CSA (Controlled Substance Act) making it illegal to possess without having a license from the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency).
However, there are some exceptions about ibogaine treatment which might apply depending on your condition and situation.
Iboga is a great plant to use for healing, but there are still some places where it has been banned. Some countries have not yet made it legal.
If you live in one of these countries or if iboga is illegal in your country, we encourage you to educate yourself and learn more about the laws so that hopefully one day soon we can all enjoy this wonderful plant together.
Additionally, ibogaine affects neurotransmitter systems and has potential in treating addiction by less opioid dependence, reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings for opioids, promoting neuron growth and plasticity, and acting as a kappa opioid receptor agonist.
What is Ibogaine?
Ibogaine is a naturally occurring psychoactive substance found in the root bark of the Tabernanthe iboga plant, a shrub native to Central Africa. It has gained attention for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in treating heroin addiction. Here’s a comprehensive look at ibogaine, covering its origins, uses, effects, and safety considerations.
Origins and Cultural Significance
Botanical Source
Scientific Name: Tabernanthe iboga
Family: Apocynaceae (dogbane family)
Native Region: Central Africa, primarily in countries like Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Republic of Congo.
Plant Characteristics: Iboga is a small, evergreen shrub that grows in the undergrowth of tropical forests. It has dark green leaves, white tubular flowers, and yellowish-orange fruit. The psychoactive properties are primarily concentrated in its yellow root bark.
Traditional Use
Spiritual and Ritual Use: In West African cultures, especially among the Bwiti religion in Gabon, iboga root bark is used in initiation ceremonies and healing rituals. It is believed to facilitate spiritual journeys, provide deep insights, and act as a powerful tool for personal transformation.
Medicinal and Stimulant Use: Traditionally, smaller doses of iboga are used as a stimulant, aphrodisiac, and for medicinal purposes. It is also employed to enhance endurance and physical strength.
Chemical Composition
Active Compounds
Ibogaine is the primary psychoactive alkaloid found in the iboga plant. The root bark contains several other alkaloids, including:
Ibogaline
Ibogamine
Tabernanthine
Voacangine
Ibogaine Structure
Chemical Classification: Indole alkaloid
Pharmacology: Structurally related to serotonin, ibogaine interacts with multiple neurotransmitter systems in the brain, contributing to its wide range of effects.
Therapeutic Applications
Addiction Treatment
Ibogaine is most renowned for its potential in treating addiction, particularly to opioids, alcohol, and stimulants. Here’s how it works:
Disruption of Addiction Patterns: Ibogaine has been observed to interrupt the cycle of addiction by reducing cravings and alleviating withdrawal symptoms.
Neurotransmitter Modulation: It affects dopamine, serotonin, and opioid receptors, which are critical in the brain’s reward and pleasure pathways involved in addiction.
Resetting Brain Function: Users often report a ‘reset’ in their brain’s functioning, providing a fresh start free from the compulsions of addiction.
Psychoactive Effects
Ibogaine induces profound psychoactive effects, including:
Hallucinations: Vivid, dream-like visions that occur without the loss of consciousness.
Emotional and Cognitive Shifts: Deep introspection and insight into personal issues, often described as life-changing or spiritually awakening.
Euphoric States: A sense of euphoria and emotional release that can aid in processing trauma and emotional blocks.
Other Potential Uses
Depression and Anxiety: Some research suggests that ibogaine may have potential benefits in treating mood disorders due to its effects on serotonin and dopamine systems.
Neuroplasticity: Ibogaine may promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, which could have therapeutic implications for various neurological conditions.
Mechanism of Action
Interaction with Neurotransmitter Systems
Ibogaine’s therapeutic effects are believed to arise from its complex interactions with several neurotransmitter systems:
Dopamine System: Modulates dopamine release and receptors, crucial for addressing addiction’s reward mechanisms.
Serotonin System: Enhances serotonin levels and receptor activity, contributing to mood regulation and emotional well-being.
NMDA Receptors: Acts as an antagonist, which may help in reducing neurotoxicity and withdrawal symptoms.
Opioid Receptors: Interacts with kappa and mu-opioid receptors, helping to block the effects of opioids and reduce cravings.
Sigma Receptors: Influences mood, perception, and cognitive functions, which are central to its psychoactive effects.
Phases of Action
Ibogaine’s effects typically occur in three phases:
Acute Phase: Intense hallucinogenic experiences lasting 4 to 8 hours.
Processing Phase: Reflection and processing of the experience, lasting another 24 to 36 hours.
Afterglow Phase: A period of enhanced mood and reduced cravings that can last days to weeks.
Safety and Risks
Side Effects
While ibogaine offers therapeutic potential, it also poses significant risks, particularly:
Cardiac Complications: Risk of arrhythmias and potentially fatal cardiac events.
Seizures: Rare but severe, especially at high doses.
Psychiatric Effects: Potential for manic episodes, confusion, and prolonged psychological effects.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Common side effects include nausea and vomiting.
Medical Supervision
Due to these risks, ibogaine treatment must be conducted under strict medical supervision. This includes:
Pre-treatment Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s health and suitability for ibogaine treatment.
Continuous Monitoring: Close monitoring during the treatment to manage any adverse effects.
Post-treatment Care: Ongoing support to help integrate the experience and maintain recovery.
Conclusion
Ibogaine is a powerful substance with the potential to transform lives, particularly for those struggling with addiction. Its complex interactions with the brain’s neurotransmitter systems offer unique therapeutic benefits, but they also come with significant risks. As such, ibogaine treatment should always be approached with caution and conducted in a medically supervised setting to ensure safety and maximize its potential benefits.
