what is kambo
WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IS CAN DO
Kambo is the secretion of the Phyllomedusa bicolor, also known as the 'giant leaf frog' found in parts of the Amazon, primarily in Peru and Brazil. The secretion protects the frogs from natural predators. Kambo has been used by local tribes such as the Matses, Katukina, and Yawanawa in preparations for hunts and as a healing agent, and since the 1990's, has become known as an alternative remedy for ailments in the west.
Pharmacological studies on Kambo have shown it contains an array of biopeptides and neuropeptides that seem to be well-suited to provide benefits to humans. While Kambo is not viewed as a medicinal substance in Western medicine, many practitioners and clients have reported numerous benefits: from physical issues including autoimmune disorders, such as Lyme disease, to psychological relief for PTSD, depression and anxiety. Overall, people report feeling a sense of balance and clarity in the hours, days and even weeks after a Kambo session.
what is kambo SESSION LIKE
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT TO EXPERIENCE
People are called to Kambo for many reasons, but one of them almost everyone brings to their first session is a bit of trepidation about what to expect. I know that was true for me and what helped the most was my conversation with my practitioner, Jason. So if you're a first time client, we'll start with a discussion about what will happen.
We will then do a short meditation or "grounding" to be present with your intentions for the sessions, and to bring a sense of calm. Prior to the Kambo session you will have been instructed to fast for at least one meal (7 to 12 hours), and to abstain from drinking for approximately two hours. A safe application of Kambo begins with making small blister points referred to as "gates". These gates are superficial burns to the outer layer of skin that will allow for the peptides in the Kambo to enter the bloodstream. Usually a basic session includes between three and five gates. Before applying the Kambo, you will be instructed to drink between ½ and ¾ liter of water.
Once the Kambo is applied, the effects will be felt very quickly. Kambo can be an intense experience, but luckily it isn't a long one. Kambo is NOT a psychedelic, and you will not hallucinate or get "high" from it. The experience can be a bit like a roller coaster on the first big incline. At first, you will feel flushed and warm. Your heart rate will climb and your head my throb a bit. You may feel numb or tingly in your face, neck, arms and hands. This stage will last about 5 to 8 minutes. Then, as the coaster reaches the top of the incline and begins its descent, you may feel a bit chilly and achy. You will probably experience cramps and/or nausea. It is during this stage that some clients feel a need to purge. Not everyone purges during Kambo sessions, but if you do, the water consumed earlier should help ease the process. Note that purging is NOT necessarily to realize the benefits of Kambo.
The entire process lasts 20 to 25 minutes. Within a few minutes after the Kambo is removed, you will begin to feel normal, and after a short rest (30 to 45 minutes) most people are generally ready to continue your day. Many people report a sense of euphoria, balance, and clarity after a Kambo session.
