Kambo
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Phyllomedusa Bicolor
Phyllomedusa bicolor tree frog, also known as the giant monkey frog. Her peptidal secretions contain powerful bioactive peptides, which have a multitude of physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits.
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What is Kambo? How does it work? How can it support healing and wellbeing?
Kambo, also known as, Sapo, Acate. or “frog medicine” is a traditional Amazonian healing practice originating from jungle dwelling indigenous peoples living in the rainforest of Peru and Brazil. It involves the application of a peptide secretion from the skin of the Phyllomedusa bicolor tree frog on a small superficial burn called puntos points, or gates. These points allow for the peptide secretion to enter the lymphatic system and beginning the process of detoxification. The detoxification process lasts an average of 20 minutes. During the detoxification process it is possible to feel hot, sweaty, cold, shaky, nauseous, or dizzy. You will be carefully monitored during the entire process. Be assured the most challenging part ends quickly with either a purge or a natural waning of effects and feelings of euphoria, peace, and relaxation arise.
Kambo has a reputation for boosting the immune system. The bioactive peptides in Kambo, including dermorphin and deltorphin, possess antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. These peptides begin processes in the body that can strengthen the immune system, improving the body’s defenses against infections and diseases. Along with immune support, Kambo is known to enhance mental clarity, and emotional well-being. Many participants report feeling a sense of emotional release and greater mental clarity, often attributed to the purging process that helps to unblock and release pent-up emotions and trauma.
Another significant benefit of Kambo is its ability to increase energy levels and vitality. We describe the experience as a full-body "reset," with enhanced mood, energy, and overall rejuvenation in the days and weeks following a session. Additionally, certain peptides in Kambo possess analgesic (pain-relieving) qualities, offering relief from chronic pain conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. The peptides also stimulate the digestive system, improving gut motility, reducing bloating, and potentially leading to long-term improvements in digestion and nutrient absorption.
Kambo is also valued for its spiritual and emotional healing aspects. The purging process is a way to clear not just physical toxins, but emotional and energetic blockages as well. This can lead to a sense of emotional freedom and a deeper connection to oneself, and all living beings. It is also common to feel more spiritually aligned after a Kambo session, which is why we often use it to enhance meditation, shamanic journeys, or other spiritual practices or physical endeavors.
benefits of kambo
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Detoxification
Addiction cravings
Resilience and strength
Pain/inflammation
Feeling of peace and connection
improved mood
improved Reproductive issues
Rebalancing of internal cycles
Convalescence support
Depressive symptoms
improved inflammation response
Improved immunity
Brain fog
Increase in motivation and stamina
Improved skin elasticity
Deeper restful sleep
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Detoxification and arrest of addictions or habits
Liver cleanse improved eyesight, hearing
Increased stamina and motivation and general feeling of wellness
improved reproductive symptoms and fertility
Better quality sleep
improved symptoms of decease or resolving of illness manifestations
sustained improved mood
Groundedness lessening of anxiety worry
Confidence and clarity
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Participant Preparation for Kambo
🐸Understanding the traditional uses of Kambo
Kambo, aka sapo, and acate has been utilized for generations by indigenous tribes such as the Matsés/Mayoruna, Katukina, and Yawanawá in the Amazon Basin of Peru and Brasil. Traditionally, it is used to enhance stamina for endurance hunting, alleviate illness such as colds and flu, and restore energetic balance and resilience. In these forest communities, Kambo is integrated into daily life, with children as young as two or three years old receiving it as part of their heritage. Sessions often commence in the early morning hours and if anything is drunk prior it is typically fermented beverages like Masato or Chicha or some seasonal jungle fruit juice.
🚩 Modern Adaptations and Safety Concerns
As Kambo has entered Western wellness circles, certain adaptations and misinterpreted appropriations have emerged that diverge from traditional method. One such practice involves consuming large volumes of water—up to three liters—prior to or during application. This approach is dangerous, potentially leading to hyponatremia, a condition where sodium levels become dangerously diluted, resulting in symptoms like dry heaving, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, death. It is crucial to recognize that such practices are not rooted in indigenous traditions and may compromise the safety and efficacy of the Kambo experience.
🍃Our Preparation Recommendations:
Hydration: we ask you be hydrated and have an empty stomach before the session. We will supply Coconut water, Yuca or Papaya juice prior to the secretion application. This approach supports hydration without risking electrolyte imbalance.
Fasting: Avoid solid foods for at least 4 hours before the session to allow the body to digest and leave the stomach empty. If your session is in the morning smoothies, banana and drinks are fine 1 hour prior to your session. If possible, refrain from caffeine or coffee or try to drink less and substitute with juice water or tea.
Alcohol: Drinking alcohol the evening before will dull the effect. Refrain for at least 24 hours and let your practitioner know of your alcohol consumption as it can influence the session.
Drugs: All drugs are best avoided before your session including pharmaceuticals. Letting your practitioner know what medications or drugs you take is required as some medications can affect the experience. Kambo has been recognized for its potential to aid in breaking cycles of addiction by facilitating deep physical and emotional cleansing.
🩹Pharmaceutical Medications
If you are currently taking any prescription medications, it is imperative to inform your practitioner well in advance of your session. Certain medications may need to be paused or adjusted to ensure a safe and effective experience. Never discontinue or alter your medication regimen without consulting both your healthcare provider and your Kambo practitioner.
Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing, layering with a sleeveless or t-shirt is recommended.
Mental Preparation: Engage in affirming practices such as journaling or movement, meditation, to connect mind and body.
Support: Be assured we will be providing guidance and careful monitoring throughout the process. Toward the end of the medicine session, you will have the option to rest on a Biomat and tea or a hydrating drink will be served.
Driving: Typically people can drive directly after their session but you are welcome to bring a friend or loved one for support.
🌴 Post-Session Considerations⛱️
After the session, allow time for rest and relaxation. Avoid scheduling demanding activities immediately afterward and it is suggested to avoid heavy meals, drugs, or alcohol for at least 24 hours to allow for the body's natural healing processes to complete.
🦎Approaching your Kambo experience with thoughtful preparation can enhance its safety and healing potential. If you any questions or would like personalized guidance, feel free to reach out. Thank you. 🌻
Book A Kambo Session
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Individual Kambo Session
Session highlights:
Health check-in and consultation
Kambo
Rapeh
Sananga (optional & when available)
Post session Biomat restorationOptional Add-ons:
Micro-dose
Tarot Card Reading
Ozone insufflation
Integration
Transformative Journey -
Group Kambo Ceremony
Custom curated to your private group.
Past Group Themes:
Women’s Group
Kambo Yoga
Family Kambo
Sound Ceremony Kambo
River Kambo
Detoxification retreats
Medicine Retreats
Shamanic Kambo
Alchemical Ceremony..
Science of Kambo
Antioxidant Properties
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Tryptophilins are small peptides composed of amino acids, often with a high concentration of the amino acid tryptophan, a serotonin precursor. They contribute to the antimicrobial, immune-modulatory, and potentially serotonergic effects of the secretion. Their ability to defend the body against pathogens, modulate mood, and enhance immune function makes them a key component in the therapeutic benefits of Kambo.
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Sauvagines are decapeptides (composed of 10 amino acids), structurally related to bradykinin, a peptide involved in vasodilation and blood pressure regulation. Sauvagines contribute to the detoxification process by promoting circulatory and metabolic changes that support the elimination of toxins. The vasodilation effect can improve blood flow to various organs, including the digestive system, which is important for the intense purging (vomiting, sweating, etc.) that occurs during a Kambo session. They are potent vasodilators, meaning they can cause the relaxation of blood vessels. This leads to increased blood flow and can contribute to the regulation of blood pressure. They work by interacting with bradykinin receptor muscles in blood vessels.
Immunomodulation
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Dermaseptins, including adenoregulins (with 33 amino acids), plasticins and philloseptins form part of a family of broad spectrum antimicrobial peptides involved in the defense of frogs’ bare skin against microbial invasion. These are the first vertebrate peptides that show lethal effects against filamentous fungi responsible for severe opportunistic infections which accompany immunodeficiency syndrome and the use of immunosuppressive agents. They also show lethal effects against a broad spectrum of bacteria both large+ and large-, fungi, yeasts and protozoa. Several years of research carried out at the University of Paris have shown that peptides Dermaseptin B2 and B3 effectively kill certain types of cancer cells. Researchers at Queens University in Belfast recently won a prestigious award for their ground-breaking work with cancer and Kambo. Its mechanism of action is produced by inhibiting the angiogenesis of tumor cells, exhibiting selective cytotoxicity for these cells.
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Tryptophilins are small peptides composed of amino acids, often with a high concentration of the amino acid tryptophan, a serotonin precursor. They contribute to the antimicrobial, immune-modulatory, and potentially serotonergic effects of the secretion. Their ability to defend the body against pathogens, modulate mood, and enhance immune function makes them a key component in the therapeutic benefits of Kambo.
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Deltorphin is a highly selective agonist for the delta-opioid receptor, which is distinct from the mu-opioid receptor targeted by dermorphin and morphine. This specificity results in a somewhat different action compared to dermorphin. Deltorphin is also highly potent, although its affinity for opioid receptors is more selective for delta receptors than the mu receptors targeted by dermorphin. It produces immediate analgesiac effects, but also induces effects like euphoria, sedation, and immune system modulation.
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Bombesins are small peptides, typically composed of about 14–30 amino acids, that were first identified in the secretions of the European amphibian, Bombina orientalis, from which they get their name. Bombesins belong to a family of peptides called neurokinins, and they have a variety of biological effects on both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral systems, such as the digestive tract. These peptides stimulate the secretion of hydrochloric acid by acting on the G cells of the stomach, regardless of the pH of the medium. They also increase pancreatic secretion, intestinal myoelectric activity and smooth muscle contractibility. Bombesin is involved in the regulation of several hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which are important for blood sugar regulation.
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Caeruleins are decapeptides (10-amino acid sequences) that are structurally related to secretin and cholecystokinin (CCK), which are also involved in digestive processes. Caeruleins promote the secretion of pancreatic enzymes, which are essential for the digestion of food, particularly proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The enzyme secretion helps with the breakdown of food in the small intestine This can contribute to enhanced digestion and likelihood of purging during the session.
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Sauvagines are decapeptides (composed of 10 amino acids), structurally related to bradykinin, a peptide involved in vasodilation and blood pressure regulation. Sauvagines contribute to the detoxification process by promoting circulatory and metabolic changes that support the elimination of toxins. The vasodilation effect can improve blood flow to various organs, including the digestive system, which is important for the intense purging (vomiting, sweating, etc.) that occurs during a Kambo session. They are potent vasodilators, meaning they can cause the relaxation of blood vessels. This leads to increased blood flow and can contribute to the regulation of blood pressure. They work by interacting with bradykinin receptor muscles in blood vessels.
Anti-Hypertensive Effects
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Bradykinins primarily act by binding to B2 receptors on the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels, leading to vasodilation (the relaxation of blood vessels). This results in an increase in blood flow and decreased blood pressure. The vasodilation caused by bradykinins can lead to sensations of warmth, flushing, and increased circulation and contribute to the detoxifying and purging effects of the ritual. Bradykinins are involved in the pain response, as they can sensitize nerve endings when released during inflammation, they contribute to the sensation of pain and discomfort in tissues. In the context of Kambo, the release of bradykinins may play a role in initial discomfort or intense sensations during the experience, although this is often offset by the pain-relieving peptides in the secretion.
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Sauvagines are decapeptides (composed of 10 amino acids), structurally related to bradykinin, a peptide involved in vasodilation and blood pressure regulation. Sauvagines contribute to the detoxification process by promoting circulatory and metabolic changes that support the elimination of toxins. The vasodilation effect can improve blood flow to various organs, including the digestive system, which is important for the intense purging (vomiting, sweating, etc.) that occurs during a Kambo session. They are potent vasodilators, meaning they can cause the relaxation of blood vessels. This leads to increased blood flow and can contribute to the regulation of blood pressure. They work by interacting with bradykinin receptor muscles in blood vessels.
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Phyllokinin and Phyllomedusins are both potent vasodilators, increasing the permeability of the blood-brain barrier both for their own access as well as for that of other active peptides. Phyllomedusin has been shown to exhibit significant antibacterial and antifungal effects. It works similarly to magainin by disrupting microbial membranes. Within this family are the medusins, which also have antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
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Bombesins are small peptides, typically composed of about 14–30 amino acids, that were first identified in the secretions of the European amphibian, Bombina orientalis, from which they get their name. Bombesins belong to a family of peptides called neurokinins, and they have a variety of biological effects on both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral systems, such as the digestive tract. These peptides stimulate the secretion of hydrochloric acid by acting on the G cells of the stomach, regardless of the pH of the medium. They also increase pancreatic secretion, intestinal myoelectric activity and smooth muscle contractibility. Bombesin is involved in the regulation of several hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which are important for blood sugar regulation.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
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Bradykinins primarily act by binding to B2 receptors on the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels, leading to vasodilation (the relaxation of blood vessels). This results in an increase in blood flow and decreased blood pressure. The vasodilation caused by bradykinins can lead to sensations of warmth, flushing, and increased circulation and contribute to the detoxifying and purging effects of the ritual. Bradykinins are involved in the pain response, as they can sensitize nerve endings when released during inflammation, they contribute to the sensation of pain and discomfort in tissues. In the context of Kambo, the release of bradykinins may play a role in initial discomfort or intense sensations during the experience, although this is often offset by the pain-relieving peptides in the secretion.
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Denoregulins, like other peptides in Kambo, likely exert their analgesic effects by binding to opioid receptors in the body. These include the mu-opioid receptors, which are primarily responsible for the pain-relieving effects seen with other opioid-like peptides (such as dermorphin and deltorphin). The opioid-like activity of denoregulins suggests they may act similarly to endorphins by blocking pain signals in the nervous system and promoting a feeling of euphoria and relaxation.
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Dermorphin is a non-selective opioid peptide that binds strongly to the mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which are the same receptors targeted by opioids like morphine. However, dermorphin is much more potent than morphine. Dermorphin causes analgesia, sedation, and euphoria, but it can also lead to side effects like respiratory depression and cardiovascular instability.
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Deltorphin is a highly selective agonist for the delta-opioid receptor, which is distinct from the mu-opioid receptor targeted by dermorphin and morphine. This specificity results in a somewhat different action compared to dermorphin. Deltorphin is also highly potent, although its affinity for opioid receptors is more selective for delta receptors than the mu receptors targeted by dermorphin. It produces immediate analgesiac effects, but also induces effects like euphoria, sedation, and immune system modulation.
Antimicrobial Activity
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Magainins disrupt microbial membranes. They are small positively charged peptides that consist of about 20 amino acids. They are part of a larger class of peptides known as defensins. Magainins have broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal properties. They work by interacting with the cell membranes of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, disrupting their integrity and causing them to break down. They do this by embedding themselves into the lipid bilayer of microbial cell membranes, creating pores that lead to cell lysis (rupture) and the leakage of intracellular contents, ultimately killing the microbe. The positive charge of magainins helps them interact with the negatively charged membranes of microbes, making them particularly effective against Gram-negative bacteria (which have an outer membrane) and fungi.
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Dermaseptins, including adenoregulins (with 33 amino acids), plasticins and philloseptins form part of a family of broad spectrum antimicrobial peptides involved in the defense of frogs’ bare skin against microbial invasion. These are the first vertebrate peptides that show lethal effects against filamentous fungi responsible for severe opportunistic infections which accompany immunodeficiency syndrome and the use of immunosuppressive agents. They also show lethal effects against a broad spectrum of bacteria both large+ and large-, fungi, yeasts and protozoa. Several years of research carried out at the University of Paris have shown that peptides Dermaseptin B2 and B3 effectively kill certain types of cancer cells. Researchers at Queens University in Belfast recently won a prestigious award for their ground-breaking work with cancer and Kambo. Its mechanism of action is produced by inhibiting the angiogenesis of tumor cells, exhibiting selective cytotoxicity for these cells.
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Adenoregulin is another antimicrobial peptide found in Kambo, though less well-known than others like magainin or dermaseptin. Adenoregulin has been shown to have significant antibacterial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria.
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Phyllokinin and Phyllomedusins are both potent vasodilators, increasing the permeability of the blood-brain barrier both for their own access as well as for that of other active peptides. Phyllomedusin has been shown to exhibit significant antibacterial and antifungal effects. It works similarly to magainin by disrupting microbial membranes. Within this family are the medusins, which also have antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
-
Tryptophilins are small peptides composed of amino acids, often with a high concentration of the amino acid tryptophan, a serotonin precursor. They contribute to the antimicrobial, immune-modulatory, and potentially serotonergic effects of the secretion. Their ability to defend the body against pathogens, modulate mood, and enhance immune function makes them a key component in the therapeutic benefits of Kambo.
Enahanced Mood & Clarity
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Dermorphin is a non-selective opioid peptide that binds strongly to the mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which are the same receptors targeted by opioids like morphine. However, dermorphin is much more potent than morphine. Dermorphin causes analgesia, sedation, and euphoria, but it can also lead to side effects like respiratory depression and cardiovascular instability.
-
Deltorphin is a highly selective agonist for the delta-opioid receptor, which is distinct from the mu-opioid receptor targeted by dermorphin and morphine. This specificity results in a somewhat different action compared to dermorphin. Deltorphin is also highly potent, although its affinity for opioid receptors is more selective for delta receptors than the mu receptors targeted by dermorphin. It produces immediate analgesiac effects, but also induces effects like euphoria, sedation, and immune system modulation.
-
Denoregulins, like other peptides in Kambo, likely exert their analgesic effects by binding to opioid receptors in the body. These include the mu-opioid receptors, which are primarily responsible for the pain-relieving effects seen with other opioid-like peptides (such as dermorphin and deltorphin). The opioid-like activity of denoregulins suggests they may act similarly to endorphins by blocking pain signals in the nervous system and promoting a feeling of euphoria and relaxation.
-
Tryptophilins are small peptides composed of amino acids, often with a high concentration of the amino acid tryptophan, a serotonin precursor. They contribute to the antimicrobial, immune-modulatory, and potentially serotonergic effects of the secretion. Their ability to defend the body against pathogens, modulate mood, and enhance immune function makes them a key component in the therapeutic benefits of Kambo.
-
Sauvagines are decapeptides (composed of 10 amino acids), structurally related to bradykinin, a peptide involved in vasodilation and blood pressure regulation. Sauvagines contribute to the detoxification process by promoting circulatory and metabolic changes that support the elimination of toxins. The vasodilation effect can improve blood flow to various organs, including the digestive system, which is important for the intense purging (vomiting, sweating, etc.) that occurs during a Kambo session. They are potent vasodilators, meaning they can cause the relaxation of blood vessels. This leads to increased blood flow and can contribute to the regulation of blood pressure. They work by interacting with bradykinin receptor muscles in blood vessels.
-
Bombesins are small peptides, typically composed of about 14–30 amino acids, that were first identified in the secretions of the European amphibian, Bombina orientalis, from which they get their name. Bombesins belong to a family of peptides called neurokinins, and they have a variety of biological effects on both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral systems, such as the digestive tract. These peptides stimulate the secretion of hydrochloric acid by acting on the G cells of the stomach, regardless of the pH of the medium. They also increase pancreatic secretion, intestinal myoelectric activity and smooth muscle contractibility. Bombesin is involved in the regulation of several hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which are important for blood sugar regulation.
Harvesting the secretion kambo
All Kambo served is ethically, sustainably, and respectfully harvested by herself or her Peruvian colleagues. The frogs are not harmed in the process and are released shortly after.
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