Kambo
Phyllomedusa bicolor
Origin
Kambo has a long tradition among indigenous groups in the Amazon, including the Noke Koi, Katukina, Yawanawá, Cashinahua and Matsés, where it forms part of ceremonies with spiritual and cultural significance.
The secretion is taken from the skin of Phyllomedusa bicolor — a large tree frog known as “Kambo/Kampu”, native to the Amazon. The frog is treated with respect and always released back into the wild after collection, in keeping with the indigenous understanding of the frog as a protector and healer.
In the West, kambo is offered within ceremonial settings inspired by these traditions.
The practice is part of a tradition and ritual community that has lived on for generations in the rainforest.
The session
A kambo session is an intense, short-lived physical experience. Come well prepared, and read the health form carefully beforehand.
- 01Preparation
Fasting beforehand is recommended. A limited amount of water or a specific soup may be taken by individual agreement with the practitioner. The health form and consent form are reviewed before starting.
- 02Application
Small, superficial points are made in the top layer of skin using a heated incense stick. The secretion is applied to the points. The effect is felt quickly — typically increased heart rate, a sensation of heat, and sweating.
- 03The course of it
After a few minutes, nausea and vomiting usually occur. The session typically lasts 10–30 minutes. The practitioner is present throughout.
Research
The secretion from Phyllomedusa bicolor has been the subject of pharmacological research since the 1960s. More than 200 bioactive peptides have been identified, and laboratory studies have documented antimicrobial properties, binding to opioid and adenosine receptors, and effects on blood pressure and smooth muscle — which helps explain the physiological reactions that occur during a session.
A study published in Scientific Reports (Nature, 2020) documented that users reported lasting experiences of personal and spiritual significance after the session. Research on the peptides has primarily been conducted in laboratory and animal models. Clinical studies in humans have not been carried out.
More recent medical literature also documents real physiological risk during the session, particularly for people with underlying cardiovascular disease. This underscores the importance of thorough health screening before participation.
Safety and responsibility
Kambo is an intense physical experience that is not suitable for everyone. All participants complete a health form and sign a consent form beforehand. The practitioner reserves the right to decline participation based on the submitted health information.
- Completed health form submitted in advance
- Signed consent form
- Fasting from food the same day
- No alcohol in the last 48 hours
- A complete list of medications you take
- Heart disease or known heart problems
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Epilepsy
- Active psychosis or severe mental illness
- Kidney failure or liver disease
- Very low or high blood pressure
- Previous aneurysm
- Blood thinners, immunosuppressants, or lithium
- Under 18 years of age
Contact
Send an inquiry by email. We will send you the health form and consent form ahead of any booking.
All inquiries are treated confidentially. Kambo is offered as a ceremonially inspired experience and is not medical treatment.
- Send an email with a short introduction of yourself
- You will receive a health form to fill in
- The practitioner reviews the form and confirms suitability
- The consent form is signed before the session
- A time is arranged after approved screening