By Gabriel García September 26, 2023
Ibogaine is a natural substance found in several plant species, especially those of the Apocynaceae family. It is a hallucinogen that has therapeutic properties for the treatment of psychological addiction, that is, the compulsive desire to consume drugs or other substances that generate dependence.
What is addiction?
Addiction is a disease that affects both the body and the mind. Excessive and prolonged drug use alters the structure and functioning of the brain, causing changes in behaviors, emotions and perception of reality. To overcome addiction, a comprehensive treatment that addresses the physical, psychological, social and spiritual aspects of the problem is required.
How does ibogaine work on the brain?
Ibogaine acts on the receptors of two main neurotransmitters: serotonin and dopamine. These are responsible for regulating mood, motivation, pleasure and reward. When taking drugs, these neurotransmitters are released in excess, creating a sense of euphoria and well-being that is sought to be repeated. However, over time, the brain adapts to this situation and reduces its natural production of serotonin and dopamine, leading to a decrease in pleasure and an increase in discomfort. This causes the addict to need to take more and more drugs to feel good or simply to avoid feeling bad.
How can ibogaine help to overcome addiction?
Ibogaine helps to reverse this process by increasing the level of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, restoring the chemical and emotional balance. In addition, Ibogaine has a psychedelic effect that induces an introspective and spiritual experience in the patient. During this experience, the patient can access memories, traumas, conflicts or beliefs that are related to his addiction and that prevent him from moving forward in his recovery. Ibogaine facilitates awareness and resolution of these issues, allowing the patient to free himself from the psychological chains that bind him to the drug.
Ibogaine therapy is not a magical or miraculous treatment. It requires a previous diagnosis, adequate preparation, constant medical supervision and subsequent follow-up. Not all people are suitable to receive this treatment, since there are physical and psychological contraindications that must be evaluated by professionals. In addition, Ibogaine therapy does not guarantee a definitive cure of the addiction, but it is a tool that facilitates the detoxification and rehabilitation process. The patient must be committed to his own change and continue with other psychological and social therapies that help him to maintain his abstinence and improve his quality of life.
Ibogaine is a substance that has proven effective in the treatment of addictions to opiates, alcohol, methamphetamines, nicotine and other drugs. It may also be useful in treating obsessive-compulsive disorders that do not involve substance abuse. However, its use is still not legalized or regulated in many countries, making it difficult to access and scientifically investigate. Despite this, there are numerous studies and testimonials that support the benefits of Ibogaine for people suffering from addiction.
One source of useful and rigorous information on psychedelics is Argonowta’s Psychonaut’s Guides, which offer practical and scientific advice on how to prepare for, experience and benefit from psychedelic trips. These guides address topics such as dosage, set and setting, integration or legal and health precautions. If you want to know more about the fascinating world of psychedelics, we recommend that you consult these guides and explore your mind responsibly and respectfully.
The Psychonaut’s Guides from Argonowta Publishing is a collection of books that explain in a rigorous and accessible way the scientific, historical, cultural and experiential aspects of psychedelic substances. These guides offer updated and contrasted information on the therapeutic and neuroscientific applications of psilocybin, LSD, DMT and MDMA, as well as practical advice on how to prepare, carry out and take advantage of psychedelic experiences. The Psychonaut’s Guides are a must-have reference for anyone interested in learning about the psychedelic renaissance that is transforming mental health and changing lives.
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