Ibogaine is a hallucinogenic drug used in tribal ceremonies in central Africa and derived from the bark and root of the iboga tree. It has been discovered that it can also help addicts lose their cravings for certain drugs such as cocaine, alcohol, cocaine and heroin.
It affects the brain in two ways. The first is metabolic where it creates a protein that blocks receptors in the brain that trigger cravings, instantly stopping the symptoms of withdrawal and bringing people back to their pre-addiction stage. Normally, this process can take months.
Its second effect seems to inspire a dream-like state that is intensely introspective, allowing addicts to address issues in their life that they use alcohol or drugs to suppress.
Unfortunately, because ibogaine was banned in the US in 1967, along with LSD and psilocybin mushrooms, little research has been done towards investigating its use as a medication against addiction.
Related subjects
- Addiction
- Alcohol dangers
- Medications
- Neurological disorders
- Recreational drugs
- Tobacco dangers