Kambô FAQs

1. Is Kambô considered a medicine? In the Amazon, Kambô is regarded as a sacred medicine with many therapeutic benefits. While it’s not categorized as "medicine" in the Western sense, it has been traditionally used to treat ailments such as malaria, infections, snake bites, and to boost the immune system.

2. What happens during a Kambô ceremony? You will arrive on an empty stomach and drink 1.5 liters of water to prepare your body. The practitioner will apply small, superficial burns to your skin, creating "gates" through which the Kambô secretion will be introduced. The peptides in the secretion will enter your system, causing a strong detoxification response. This may include sensations like heat, sweating, nausea, dizziness, and possibly purging (vomiting or diarrhea). The purging phase typically lasts 20-40 minutes, after which you'll have time to rest and process the experience.

3. Do I need to fast or use enemas before a Kambô session? Fasting for 8-12 hours before a Kambô session is both sufficient and necessary to prepare your body for the process. Longer fasting periods or the use of enemas are strongly discouraged, as they can disrupt your body’s electrolyte balance. Electrolytes are essential for hydration, muscle function, and cellular health, and an imbalance can cause dizziness, fatigue, or other complications. Following the recommended fasting period and avoiding enemas ensures your body is well-prepared to safely receive the medicine.

4. How should I prepare for a Kambô session? To ensure the best experience:

• 3 Days Before: Eat light, healthy foods and avoid heavy or processed foods.

• 12 Hours Before: Begin fasting and avoid food or drink.

• On the Day of the Ceremony: Arrive with an empty stomach, ready to drink the water needed for the session. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and come with an open mind.

5. What are the side effects of Kambô? Common side effects during the ceremony include sweating, nausea, dizziness, emotional release, and purging. These are all part of the body’s detoxification process.

6. Will I experience emotional release during a Kambô session? Yes, emotional release is a common and powerful part of the Kambô experience. This may manifest as tears, intense emotions, or a profound sense of liberation. In traditional Amazonian culture, Kambô is believed to help remove panema, a term describing heavy, stagnant energy associated with sadness, anger, or frustration. Clearing panema restores clarity, vitality, and emotional balance.

7. What is a Herxheimer reaction (Herxing)? A Herxheimer reaction is a temporary immune response where the body eliminates toxins, bacteria, and parasites during the Kambô process. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s a positive sign that the medicine is doing its work. People with autoimmune conditions may experience this more intensely, but it generally resolves as the body clears the toxins.

8. Who should avoid Kambô? Kambô is not suitable for everyone. It should be avoided by individuals with conditions such as:

• Serious heart issues (e.g., heart surgery, pacemaker).

• History of stroke or brain hemorrhage.

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding (under 1 year).

• Severe mental health conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, psychosis).

• Organ transplant recipients or those on immunosuppressants.

This is not a complete list, which is why an initial consultation is essential to review your health history and ensure Kambô is appropriate for you.

9. How many sessions of Kambô will I need? The number of sessions needed varies based on your personal healing goals. Some people benefit from a single session, while others may require multiple sessions to address specific health issues or emotional blockages. Together, we’ll determine the best approach for you.

10. Can Kambô be used to treat specific health conditions? Kambô has been traditionally used to address chronic pain, inflammation, digestive issues, and mental health concerns. However, it should not replace medical treatment. It is best approached as a complementary healing practice.

11. How often should I receive Kambô? The frequency of Kambô treatments depends on your goals. Some traditions recommend using Kambô during the new moon to maintain a healthy immune system, typically no more than 10-12 times a year. Trust your intuition and your body to determine the right timing.

12. Will I get permanent scars from the Kambô treatment? The "gates" left by Kambô are usually temporary and fade over time. The healing process is supported by Dragon’s Blood, which prevents infection. Some people view their marks as a symbol of their healing journey.

13. Can I expect to have hallucinations or visions during my Kambô ceremony?Kambô is not hallucinogenic, but it may alter your mental state temporarily. Many people report clarity, insight, or visions, especially during the rest period after treatment, as the medicine continues to work energetically.

14. Can I combine Kambô with other healing practices? Yes, Kambô can be combined with practices such as meditation, yoga, plant medicine, and herbal remedies. Let me know if you’re engaging in other treatments so we can ensure they align with your Kambô journey.

15. Can I use the same gates for other treatments? Yes, but only after they have fully healed, which typically takes 2-3 months. Proper care during the healing process is essential to avoid complications.

16. What is the IAKP and why is it important? The IAKP (International Association of Kambô Practitioners) is a global organization that sets ethical guidelines and safety protocols for Kambô practitioners. Membership ensures practitioners are well-trained and certified, providing a safe, high-quality Kambô experience.

17. Where does the Kambô I use come from? As an IAKP-certified practitioner, I source my Kambô through the Association, ensuring it is ethically harvested and pure. The IAKP works with the Matses tribe in the Amazon to support sustainability and fair trade, preserving the integrity of the medicine.

18. What are the ethical considerations of using Kambô? Ethics play a significant role in the responsible use of Kambô. The frogs are not harmed during the harvesting process, and the IAKP works directly with indigenous tribes like the Matses to ensure fair trade, sustainable practices, and respect for the cultural traditions surrounding Kambô. By choosing ethically sourced Kambô, we honor the wisdom of the Amazonian tribes and contribute to the preservation of their heritage.

19. How do I book a Kambô session? To book a Kambô session, simply contact me via email or through the booking form on my website. We’ll arrange a time that works for you, and I’ll guide you through preparation and health considerations beforehand.