Contraindications of Kambo
Kambo is a powerful natural secretion from the Phyllomedusa bicolor (giant monkey frog) used in traditional Amazonian medicine. While many people seek its effects for detoxification, immune system boosting, and emotional healing, it is important to recognize that Kambo is not safe for everyone. There are several contraindications (medical conditions or circumstances that make Kambo unsafe), including:
1. Cardiovascular and Circulatory Conditions
- Heart disease (e.g., arrhythmias, heart failure, angina, history of heart attack)
- High or low blood pressure (Kambo can cause sudden blood pressure fluctuations)
- History of stroke or blood clotting disorders
2. Neurological Conditions
- Epilepsy or history of seizures
- Brain aneurysms or history of severe head trauma
3. Mental Health Conditions
- Schizophrenia, psychosis, or severe bipolar disorder
- Severe depression with suicidal tendencies
- Use of strong psychiatric medications (e.g., lithium, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, SSRIs in high doses)
4. Endocrine and Autoimmune Disorders
- Addison’s disease (a rare adrenal gland disorder that affects cortisol production)
- Thyroid disorders (e.g., untreated hyperthyroidism)
5. Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Reproductive Health
- Pregnant women (Kambo can cause strong contractions, which could lead to miscarriage)
- Breastfeeding mothers (toxins could pass to the baby)
- Recent childbirth (within 3–6 months)
6. Organ and Transplantation Issues
- People with organ transplants (Kambo can overstimulate the immune system, possibly leading to rejection)
- Chronic kidney disease or kidney failure (Kambo is processed through the kidneys and can be dangerous)
7. Medications and Substance Use
- Use of blood thinners (e.g., Warfarin, Aspirin, Heparin)
- Immunosuppressants (e.g., post-organ transplant medications)
- Recent use of recreational drugs (e.g., MDMA, cocaine, amphetamines, or alcohol in the last 24 hours)
- Recent use of strong medications affecting serotonin levels (e.g., MAOIs, SSRIs in high doses, certain migraine medications)
8. Recent Medical Procedures or Conditions
- Recent surgery (within the last 6–8 weeks)
- Recovering from a major illness or infection
- Severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
9. Other Contraindications
- Fasting or extreme dieting before Kambo (can increase risks of low blood pressure and shock)
- History of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
- Warnings & Precautions
Even if you do not have a strict contraindication, Kambo is a very potent medicine. It is not a psychedelic but induces strong physiological effects such as vomiting, intense heat, rapid heartbeat, and sometimes temporary loss of consciousness.