TABERNANTHE IBOGA
FAMILY :: APOCYNACEAE
IBOGA: A tropical shrub with panicles of small white/yellow/pink flowers from the West African rain forests.
The yellow roots contain a number of indole alkaloids, the most active of which is probably ibogaine, which is found in the highest concentration in the root-bark. The root material, bitter in taste, causes an anaesthetic sensation in the mouth as well as a systemic numbness of the skin.
The root bark is used as a magical plant in initiatory rights of secret cults such as the Bwiti of Western central Africa. Ibogaine, the chief alkaloid in this plant is a MAO inhibitor, has psychedelic properties, and in low doses is capable of producing aphrodisiac effects. Large doses can be fatal. Ibogaine is being researched as a cure for alcoholism. Illegal in the US.
IMAGE: Ibogaine HCl Crystal Under UV, courtesy of Marko Resinovic and the Sacrament of Transmission.
“The Catholic church is a beautiful theory for Sunday, the iboga on the contrary is the practice of everyday living. In church, they speak of God, with iboga, you live God” – Nengue Me Ndjoung Isidore, ecumenical Bwitist religious leader
MORE INFORMATION:
- The Bwiti Religion and the psychoactive plant Tabernanthe iboga by Giorgio Samorini
- MINDVOX : IBOGAINE (Excelent resource website)
Video about Ibogaine Treatment:
TV KPIX News Broadcast about Ibogaine
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