by Lisa
Shakti Kambo
What is Kambo?
Kambo is a natural secretion derived from the Monkey Tree Frog, indigenous to the upper regions of the Amazon Rainforest basin. Contrary to popular belief, Kambo is not a poison or venom; rather, it serves as a sun screen for the Kambo frog during the dry seasons. For thousands of years, various tribes within the Amazon, including the Matses, Kaxinawa, and Yawanawa, have utilised Kambo for its diverse therapeutic properties.
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These tribal communities employ Kambo for a multitude of purposes, ranging from spiritual cleansing to physical healing. It is believed to ward off negative energies, clear infections, promote fertility, and enhance immunity.
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Kambo holds a sacred significance among these indigenous peoples, embodying their deep-rooted connection to the natural world and their reverence for its healing powers. Kambo's therapeutic effects extend beyond the physical realm, addressing the holistic wellbeing of individuals by fostering mental, emotional, and spiritual growth. When administered by a skilled practitioner in a safe and supportive environment, Kambo can facilitate profound introspection and purification, leading to a renewed sense of vitality and purpose. Embarking on a Kambo journey requires courage and openness to its transformative potential. While the experience may be intense, the rewards are invaluable—a deeper connection to oneself, a heightened awareness of one's surroundings, and a profound appreciation for the healing powers of nature.
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As we delve into the depths of Kambo, let us honour the wisdom of the Monkey Tree Frog and the indigenous traditions that have preserved its sacred teachings for generations. Together, let us embark on a journey of exploration, healing, and self-discovery, guided by the timeless wisdom of Kambo.
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What does Kambo have to do with Tantra and Sacred Sexuality?
Everything! Kambo is a natural, accent healing medicine that works physically, emotionally, energetically and spiritually. Kambo helps us to release and let go of old belief systems and patterns, which can also be viewed as old stagnant energy in your bodies and systems. And in sexuality (and life), we tend to hold a lot of these old and often unconscious patterns and belief systems!
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Kambo also works with trauma, trauma with a big T (sexual, emotional and physical abuse, unexpected loss, tragic events etc), and trauma with a small T (prolonged stress, relationship breakdowns, prolonged illness, operations etc.). Again, trauma is known to be repressed and unexpressed emotions (energy) that has become stuck and held in our bodies.
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Trauma is often over looked in our lives as it can manifest in so many ways we are not aware of, particularly during childhood.
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Below are some examples of what unhealed trauma can show up as in your life, which you can often see showing up in our most intimate relationships with others:
- Low self worth
- Codependency in relationships
- Fear of abandonment
- Putting others before yourself
- Craving for external validation
- An innate feeling of shame
- Not being able to tolerate conflict
- Being overly agreeable
- Difficulty standing up for yourself and asserting boundaries
- Tolerating abusive behaviour from others
- Resisting positive change
- Always fearing what might happen next
If any of these resonate with you, then it’s likely you have some unhealed trauma. Trauma is one of the biggest blockages that stop us from fulfilling our potential and living the lives we all dream of.
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So Kambo feels complimentary and supportive to my Tantra Massage and Intimacy Coaching and Mentoring offerings, where I often work with a lot of these patterns and behaviours mentioned above.
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What does Kambo Treat?
Kambo, an ancient remedy cherished by the indigenous tribes of Amazonia, holds profound therapeutic benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, Kambo has emerged as an effective treatment for a myriad of conditions, offering relief and rejuvenation to those who seek its healing embrace.
At its core, Kambo serves as a potent cleanser, purging the body of negative energies and restoring balance to the individual. Through its holistic approach to healing, Kambo addresses not only physical ailments but also mental and emotional imbalances, providing a comprehensive pathway to wellness.
Among its many applications, Kambo has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in treating a range of conditions, including:
Depression: By purging heavy energies and toxins … and aiding in the release of unprocessed emotions and trauma, kambo has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression
Anxiety: By clearing stagnant energy and promoting inner harmony, Kambo has been shown to offer relief from anxiety.
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Fertility: Kambo is believed to enhance fertility by detoxifying the body, balancing hormonal levels, and promoting overall reproductive health.
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): Kambo's profound cleansing effects potentially aid in processing trauma, reducing symptoms of PTSD, and promoting emotional resilience.
Chronic Pain: Kambo contains peptides that have been shown in studies to contribute to pain relief, however it is believed that it is the Kambo treatments purging effect that facilitates powerful somatic release, aiding some chronic pain conditions caused by the stress of unprocessed trauma and emotions.
Cancer: While not a cure for cancer, Kambo has been utilised as a complementary therapy to alleviate symptoms, boost immunity, and improve overall well-being during cancer treatment. However it has been shown that the Dermaseptin B2 peptide found in kambo has powerful anti-cancer and anti-tumour effects, both in-vitro and in- vivo.
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But Kambo's healing embrace extends even further—it offers solace to those battling chronic pain and illnesses like cancer, providing relief and comfort in times of distress. While it may not be a cure-all, Kambo serves as a steadfast companion on the path towards healing and wholeness.
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And let us not forget the sacredness of the ceremony that accompanies Kambo's administration. It's not merely a medical treatment but a spiritual communion—a union of the earthly and the divine. In these ceremonies, we honour the wisdom of the Amazonian tribes and pay homage to the ancient spirits that guide us on our journey.
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In conclusion, Kambo is more than just a remedy—it's a sacred gift from the heart of the rainforest. I am humbled to bear witness to its transformative power, and I humbly invite all who seek healing to embark on this profound journey with Kambo.
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What is the Science?
The scientific exploration of Kambo unveils a fascinating realm of bioactive peptides and alkaloids, shedding light on its remarkable therapeutic properties. It was the pioneering work of Italian scientist Vittorio Erspamer (who discovered serotonin), that first brought Kambo under the scrutiny of laboratory analysis. Erspamer described Kambo as a "fantastic chemical cocktail" with vast potential for medical applications—an assertion that resonates deeply with my own experiences as a Kambo practitioner.
Central to Kambo's pharmacological profile are its bioactive peptides, which act as key mediators in eliciting therapeutic effects within the body. These peptides interact with specific cell receptors, initiating cascades of biochemical processes that facilitate profound physiological changes. Importantly, these changes occur without inducing stress on the body, underscoring Kambo's gentle yet potent nature as a healing agent.
Moreover, Kambo's unique ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier sets it apart as a formidable ally in the realm of medicine. This remarkable feat enables Kambo to penetrate deep into the body's systems, accessing and addressing underlying imbalances with precision and efficacy.
At the cellular level, Kambo operates as a purifier, facilitating the removal of toxins and metabolic waste from cells. These toxins are then released and discarded through the lymphatic system, promoting detoxification and rejuvenation on a systemic level. In essence, Kambo represents a convergence of ancient wisdom and modern science—a testament to the intricate interplay between traditional healing practices and contemporary pharmacology.
As a practitioner, I am inspired by the depth of understanding that science brings to Kambo's therapeutic potential, reaffirming its status as a valuable tool in the pursuit of holistic health and wellbeing.
In conclusion, the scientific insights into Kambo's bioactive constituents and physiological mechanisms offer a compelling validation of its efficacy as a healing modality. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of Kambo, let us embrace the synergy between tradition and innovation, harnessing its profound healing potential for the betterment of humanity.
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Where does the Kambo medicine come from?
We ethically source all our Kambo directly from the Matses tribe, via the Kambo Practitioner Alliance (KPA).
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The tribes highly revere the Kambo frog and treat them with the upmost care and respect. When harvested, the Kambo secretion is gently scraped from the legs and the back of the frog, and then returned back to the jungle completely unharmed. ⠀⠀⠀
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The Kambo frogs have no natural predators and are very friendly towards humans. The people of the Matses tribe have developed a beautiful connection with the frogs. There are only 2500 Matses tribe members spread across 100's of miles of rainforest. As such there is no risk of over harvesting as the tribe members leave a small white mark on their hind legs to ensure that no frogs are harvested twice.
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What to Expect?
Embarking on a journey with Kambo necessitates a preparatory phase that honours the body's natural rhythms and ensures optimal receptivity to the medicine's transformative power. Prior to the treatment, it is essential to observe a fasting period of at least 8 hours, refraining from consuming any food. Hydration is key; however, it's important to avoid excessive water intake to mitigate the risk of hyponatremia. Therefore, a small glass or two of water is permitted on the day of the treatment to maintain hydration levels without overdoing it.
The Kambo treatment itself typically spans a duration of 20 to 45 minutes, during which participants are invited to surrender to the healing process. To prepare the body for the purgative effects of Kambo, you will consume 1 to 1.5 litres of water 15 minutes before the application of the medicine. This ensures an ample supply of water to facilitate the purging of toxins and aids in the release of unprocessed emotions.
The application of Kambo involves the gentle placement of the medicine under the first layer of skin, facilitated by removing the first layer of skin with a glowing thin wooden stick or incence. Through this method, Kambo is absorbed directly into the lymphatic system, bypassing the digestive tract and allowing for swift and efficient assimilation.
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As Kambo begins to take effect, participants may experience a range of normal reactions, including flushing, tingling sensations, an increase in heart rate, and facial swelling. These responses are indicative of the medicine's purgative action and are a natural part of the healing process. It is important to remain present and receptive to these sensations, trusting in the wisdom of the medicine to facilitate profound purification and renewal.
Throughout the treatment, practitioners remain attuned to the needs and comfort of participants, offering support and guidance as they navigate the transformative journey with Kambo. With an open heart and a willingness to surrender to the medicine's wisdom, participants can expect to emerge from the experience with a renewed sense of vitality, clarity, and connection to the innate healing powers within.
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Contraindications:
Before embarking on a Kambo journey, it's essential to be aware of certain conditions that may make the treatment unsafe or unsuitable for certain individuals. These contraindications are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of participants. Let's delve into these considerations to better understand their implications.
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Some conditions pose significant risks when combined with Kambo treatment. These include aneurysms, active ulcers, alcohol dependency, Addison's disease, any brain-related issues, blood clots, recent chemotherapy, or drug dependencies (including opioids and benzodiazepines). Gastric sleeve or band, heart issues, or a history of organ transplant or psychiatric disorders such as PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or personality disorders.
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It's crucial to disclose any previous psychiatric history and medicated low blood pressure to practitioners to ensure safe treatment. Additionally, recent surgeries, strokes, pregnancy, breastfeeding (under 6 months), or individuals under 18 years of age are also advised against Kambo treatment due to potential risks.
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Participants with pancreatic issues, asthma, or diabetes must exercise caution and adhere to specific guidelines to ensure their safety during Kambo treatment.​
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Individuals who have taken Bufo (toad medicine) within the past 8 weeks or received a COVID vaccination within 6 weeks should postpone Kambo treatment.
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While most medications are compatible with Kambo, it's important to inform practitioners if you're taking antidepressants, as these may interact with the treatment. Similarly, antibiotics are best taken separately from Kambo to avoid potential interactions.
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Preparation:
To ensure a smooth and comfortable Kambo experience, it's important to take certain preparatory steps. Here's a guide to help you get ready for your session:
Hydration: Please bring at least 3 litres of water with you to stay hydrated throughout the session. It's crucial as its to help the Kambo with the purging of toxins from the body.
Fasting: Refrain from consuming any food for at least 8 hours before your scheduled arrival. This fasting period allows the body to prepare for the treatment and to prevent choking on food during the treatment. However, it is strongly advised to have a hearty meal the night before your treatment.
Medication: Avoid taking any medication on the day of your Kambo session. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
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Comfort Items: Please bring a blanket and pillow to make yourself comfortable during the treatment. Creating a cozy and relaxing environment can enhance the overall experience and promote relaxation.You may also wish to bring a spare change of clothes.
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Safety Considerations: It's important to note that Kambo has no known detrimental side effects and is considered safe for those who are not contraindicated. However, it's essential to be mindful of any pre-existing health conditions or undiagnosed symptoms, and follow the guidance of trained practitioners.
By following these preparation guidelines, you can optimise your Kambo experience and maximise its therapeutic benefits. Remember to arrive with an open mind and heart, and a willingness to surrender to the healing process. Your journey with Kambo begins with thoughtful preparation and ends with profound transformation.
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All new clients will need to complete and return a Health Questionnaire and Disclaimer prior to your Kambo treatment.
Kambo Treatments
Booking Kambo Ceremonies & Getting in Touch:
Kambo ceremonies are held in my beautiful temple space near Bristol.
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Please get in touch to book your free 20 minute zoom Discovery Call to find out more information, and arrange your Kambo treatment/s.
Contact
Instagram: Shakti_Kambo