Can a hallucinogen from Africa cure addiction? (BBC)

[Teejate]

22. I've Taken Ibogaine - Kids...Don't Try This At Home

As one who has taken ibogaine, in a controlled setting and under supervision which is the ONLY way one should approach this experience, I do believe that is has the properties to 'heal.' That said, it is not a magic pill. The outcome still relies on the commitment of the user.

My experience was more of a spiritual journey than an addiction 'cure.' In North America there are reputable facilities in Canada and Mexico that treat patients for addiction and a great many scattered throughout the world. The success rate is considerably higher than any other form of treatment but, again, it is not a magic pill and the treatment or "trip" is so intense it can be detrimental to a person whose body may already be weakened from substance abuse.

Ibogaine is a derivative of the iboga plant which is used as a sacrament amongst some African tribes. The method of ingestion needs to be controlled and executed by someone who really knows how it works. The trip itself is unlike anything I ever have or will experience. Ibogaine is a one time thing because not only is the idea of going through the very arduous physical journey unappealing but the lessons you learn should last a lifetime.

In my case, I was on my back for about 12 hours in a hallucinogenic state that I was unable to control. It is, quite literally, like watching a movie that doesn't go away. Typically the user will see 'scenes' from their life that are incredibly vivid and clear albeit representational and symbolic. A typical reaction is that these scenes will 'loop' so you're seeing the same sequence over and over. You are barely able to move and walk the line between being a passive observer and still somehow 'in' the moment. But the ibogaine is always in control.

The journey is intended to show you the areas of your life that need addressing. Other than the first 20 or 30 minutes when you begin the trip, which is overwhelmingly beautiful, this is NOT a drug you take for pleasure. Your mind goes to a place that is truly frightening for many and for all...it's very hard work. I slept for about 15 hours after I finally came down and was shaky for a day and a half afterwards.

What I will say is that following the journey your body feels clean. Ridiculously clean. Ibogaine resets the drug receptors in the body so the patient who was addicted doesn't physically need the drug. They are given a window of opportunity that can last weeks in which they can make the emotional commitment to stay clean.

There is work underway that is trying to separate the visual effects of the ibogaine so just the elements that effect the drug receptors is kept intact. I believe the visual component is actually necessary as it lays the emotional groundwork moving forward. Years after my experience many of the images are imprinted in my memory and always will be.

Of course, anything that provides an emotional experience like ibogaine will never be approved in the U.S. It is classified as a Class 1 substance, right along the evil weed marijuana, and despite the recent findings about the beneficial properties of psyllocibin, I can't see a day that this type of treatment will be accepted.

That said, I've seen it work on hardcore addicts. I've seen them given a new start and if they commitment is there it can truly and resolutely change lives.