Medicinal plant could help fight Denver fentanyl epidemic
A substance called ibogaine, which became legal when Colorado voters decriminalized psilocybin mushrooms in November 2022, could become an ally in Denver’s battle against opioid addiction
Research increasingly shows ibogaine, which comes from the bark of the Iboga shrub in Africa, can help opioid addicts kick their habits.
Those who have ingested ibogaine have reported some strange experiences. But most people who seek ibogaine therapy in places where it is legal do so in an effort to beat opioid addiction. A reporter for Vice attended an ibogaine clinic in Cancun, Mexico. He witnessed people ravaged by addiction experience success in abstaining. He also described intense hallucinations.
Studies small but increasing
Numerous small studies have been conducted that show ibogaine may help reduce opioid cravings. “Ibogaine offers a unique and novel therapeutic approach to treating opioid use disorder,” according to the Journal of Psychedelic Studies. “Further studies are needed to establish the safety, risks and potential role for ibogaine as a mainstream, evidence-based addiction treatment.”
Concluded another observational study: “A single ibogaine treatment reduced opioid withdrawal symptoms and achieved opioid cessation or…
