iboga

Iboga refers to the plant Tabernanthe iboga, a perennial shrub or small tree native to the Congo Basin and surrounding Central African forests. The plant contains several active alkaloids, most notably ibogaine, which produces long-lasting psychoactive and dissociative effects when ingested. Traditionally, iboga root bark or extracts are used in Bwiti religious ceremonies for initiation, healing rites, and guidance. Preparations involve chewing the bark or drinking an infusion; the experience can include vivid visions and introspection and often lasts 24 hours or more.

Chemistry and pharmacology: The principal psychoactive alkaloids are ibogaine, noribogaine, and ibogaline. Ibogaine is associated with dissociative effects and acts on multiple targets, including NMDA receptor antagonism and kappa-opioid receptor agonism, with additional activity on serotonin systems and other transporters. Metabolites such as noribogaine can contribute to prolonged effects. The pharmacology underpins both the perceptual effects and potential therapeutic interest, but also contributes to safety risks.

Safety and legality: Use carries significant safety risks including vomiting, ataxia, and autonomic instability; more seriously, cardiac arrhythmias and QT interval prolongation have been observed, particularly with improper dosing or polypharmacy. Co-administration with certain antidepressants or other QT-prolonging drugs is contraindicated. Ibogaine is illegal or tightly regulated in many countries, though some places permit clinical research or religious exemptions. There is no widely approved medical use in most jurisdictions.

Research and clinical context: Ibogaine and its metabolite noribogaine have been explored for treating opioid and stimulant dependence, with some small studies reporting reductions in withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Overall evidence remains inconclusive, and safety concerns limit adoption outside controlled research and specialized settings.