Roots of the iboga shrub, from which a psychedelic drug can be derived that helps opioid addicts get clean without painful withdrawal symptoms. Photo: AFP
For opioid addicts, African psychedelic ibogaine is a last-resort detox drug. Research shows it works, but a legal grey area surrounds its use by clinics
- Ibogaine is the root of the iboga shrub, used in initiation ceremonies in West Africa. Opioid addicts turn to it because it reduces withdrawal symptoms
- Medical studies of its use to cure drug addiction show it is effective, but doctors warn it can kill. A former addict who used it says ‘it’s a beautiful thing’
Topic |
Health and wellness
Roots of the iboga shrub, from which a psychedelic drug can be derived that helps opioid addicts get clean without painful withdrawal symptoms. Photo: AFP