An Overview of Ibogaine as an Addiction Treatment
Ibogaine is a compound that is found in a mid-sized shrub known as Tabernanthe iboga, which is native to central-west Africa. Early research and anecdotal evidence suggests that the compound may be used to decrease symptoms of alcohol and drug withdrawal, reduce the risk of recurrent use and ease cravings. The Bwiti religion, practiced in West Central Africa (especially in Gabon, Cameroon as well as the Republic of Congo), uses various parts of the shrub for certain religious (such as during coming of age rituals and welcoming initiates into the religion) and healing purposes, as it possesses anesthetic properties. For example,…