FAQ

Kambo points ready for application.
Kambo points ready for application.

General Information

Kambô is a traditional Amazonian medicine derived from the secretion of the Phyllomedusa bicolor frog. It’s used for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

Kambo is applied to small burns (gates) on the skin, allowing the body to absorb the peptides in the secretion. This triggers a deep cleansing process, including purging and detoxification.

Kambo is believed to cleanse the body, balance the immune system, increase energy levels, and help release emotional blockages. However, Kambo is much more than just a physical remedy. It is often described as having an almost intuitive intelligence, working in ways that go beyond our full understanding. While we can categorize some of its benefits, Kambo also operates on a deeper, more mystical level, offering unique healing experiences that vary from person to person.

When administered by a trained practitioner, Kambô is generally safe. However, it’s important to consider contraindications, disclose any medical conditions or medications to ensure it’s right for you.

Preparation and Aftercare

It’s recommended to fast for 8-12 hours before the session, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol or recreational drugs. You can view my Kambô Client’s Guide

During a Kambo session, you may experience nausea, vomiting, sweating, and emotional release. These effects are temporary and are part of the cleansing process. However, the experience of a Kambo session can vary widely, depending on both the individual and the frog. Each session is unique, as Kambo works in mysterious ways. I recommend letting go of specific expectations and simply trusting the process.

Aftercare includes resting, staying hydrated, and eating light, nourishing foods. It’s also beneficial to reflect on your experience.

The number of sessions varies depending on individual goals and needs. Some may benefit from a single session, while others may seek a series of treatments.

According to the Matsés, “When things aren’t going right in your life, it’s the right time to take Kambo.” I advise clients to “ask the frog” or listen to their body and intuition to determine when it’s time for another session.

Contraindications and Safety

Kambo is not recommended for individuals taking certain medications or substances, or for those with specific conditions outlined in the list of contraindications. If you have any doubts or concerns, please reach out to me for clarification.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Serious complications are rare but can occur if not administered properly.

Practical Considerations

The cost of a Kambo session can vary based on several factors, including the practitioner’s level of experience, the location, and whether the session is conducted in a group or private setting. For specific pricing, please contact me directly, and I’ll provide the details relevant to your situation.

I organize group sessions sporadically at various venues. Alternatively, you can host a private session at your location, with travel costs being considered. For detailed information on hosting a Kambo session, please refer to the Kambo Client’s Guide. To find out about the next group session or to book a private session, please contact me directly.

Booking can be done by email or via phone. It’s common to require a deposit to secure your appointment. Contact me for more information.

Training and Practitioner Information

I’ve been an IAKP Master Kambo practitioner for over a decade, with extensive experience worldwide. I completed the IAKP teacher program to ensure I teach Kambo safely and comprehensively, with the goal of strengthening our community and promoting broader acceptance of this treatment.

The International Association of Kambo Practitioners (IAKP) offers an excellent two-week intensive training programme that equips you with the knowledge and safety skills needed to start your practice. For information on my upcoming trainings, please visit KamboTrainings.com.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Kambo is legal in many countries, but it’s essential to check the specific regulations in your area.

Ethical considerations include sustainable sourcing of the Kambo, respecting its cultural origins, and providing informed consent to clients.

Cultural and Spiritual Context

 Kambo has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes in the Amazon for hunting, healing, and spiritual cleansing.

No, Kambo is not a hallucinogen. It does not produce altered states of consciousness like some other Amazonian medicines.

Kambo is considered a sacred medicine by many indigenous cultures, used to connect with nature and the spirit world.

During the Session

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that you don’t mind getting soiled, as purging is a common part of the experience.

It’s generally advised to fast for 8-12 hours before the session, though drinking water is usually allowed up until the session begins.

Bring water, a towel, comfortable clothes, and any personal items that help you feel at ease, like a blanket or cushion.

 A session typically lasts 2-3 hours, including preparation, the application of Kambo, and recovery time.

 A session typically lasts 2-3 hours, including preparation, the application of Kambo, and recovery time.

I typically use the local tap water unless there’s a risk of contamination. If you prefer to bring your own water, please bring 3 to 4 liters of regular filtered water. Avoid using distilled or alkaline water.

Emotional and Psychological Considerations

Many people report emotional releases during Kambo sessions, which can be a powerful tool for processing past trauma and emotional pain.

It’s normal to feel anxious. A good practitioner will provide support and create a safe space for you to express any concerns.

Integration might involve reflection, journaling, or discussing your experience with a trusted friend, counselor or therapist.

Practical Details and Policies

If you need to cancel your session, you can receive a full refund as long as you do so at least 24 hours in advance. This policy helps ensure that both your time and mine are respected, allowing me to offer the spot to someone else who may need it. If you need to cancel, please contact me as soon as possible, and I’ll be happy to assist you with rescheduling or processing your refund.

If you’re unable to attend a scheduled session, please don’t hesitate to call or email me as soon as possible. We can easily reschedule your session to a more convenient time. I understand that things come up, and I’m happy to work with you to find a new date that fits your schedule.

Yes, I do offer group Kambo sessions. Group sessions provide a supportive environment where participants can share their experiences and energies, which can enhance the healing process. The collective energy of the group often creates a strong sense of community and connection, making the experience even more powerful.

While individual sessions offer a more personalized experience with one-on-one attention, group sessions allow you to benefit from the shared journey of others. Both formats are valuable, and the choice between them depends on your personal preferences and needs.

Community and Support

Yes, I provide follow-up calls when there’s a need to monitor your progress or if there’s a potential risk situation. If you have questions about the Kambo process after our session, feel free to reach out to me by email.

For ongoing support, I recommend turning to close friends, integration circles, or therapists. If you need help finding support, please let me know, and I’ll do my best to assist you in your search.

You’re welcome to bring a friend or family member for support. However, if they are not participating in the Kambo session and there isn’t a medical reason for their presence, they will need to wait in a different area during the session. This helps create a calm and focused environment for your process.

If you experience any difficulties after your session, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. You can send me an email or a detailed text message explaining what you’re going through. I know how important it is to feel supported during your healing journey, and I’ll do my best to respond as quickly as possible to offer any guidance I can.

To connect with others who have experienced Kambo, I recommend joining the IAKP private Facebook group, Kambo Tribe.

This group offers a supportive community where you can share your experiences, ask questions, and learn from both practitioners and others who have gone through the Kambo process. It’s a great space to build connections, gain insights, and feel part of a larger community dedicated to this powerful amazonian medicine.

Ethical and Sustainable Practices

 I source my Kambo directly from the Matsés community in the Peruvian jungle. The secretion is collected ethically using traditional techniques.

The frog has been generous enough to come out of the jungle to meet us, but unfortunately, this has led to some individuals exploiting Kambo for monetary gain. Some collect Kambo in non-ethical, non-traditional ways, sometimes even using the wrong species of frog, which can be dangerous. As practitioners, it’s our responsibility to ensure that the Kambo we use is ethically sourced from communities that have a deep, traditional understanding of this medicine and do not harm the frog in any way.

I’ve witnessed significant issues arising from the commercialization of Kambo within the tribes. Often, individuals monopolize the trade, exploiting the families who collect the secretion. Many of these individuals falsely claim to be tribe members when they are not. As practitioners, it’s our responsibility to ensure that the Kambo we purchase is ethically sourced and that the monetary benefits support multiple families rather than just one individual.

I have extensive training and many years of experience in administering Kambo. I believe in continuous education and ongoing learning to stay updated and proficient in my practice. I also strictly adhere to the IAKP Code of Ethics and Professional Practice, which guides me in providing safe and responsible Kambo sessions. You can read more about these ethical standards here.

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