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 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
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
Wellness
Lifestyle /  Health & Wellness

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 |   Wellness
Tyler Nyquvest

Updated: 3:45am, 28 Dec, 2019

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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 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
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
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