If you're new to Kambo and curious about its potential benefits, this will provide an an overview of what it is, how it works, and why people seek it for healing.


What Is Kambo?

Kambo is a natural secretion harvested from the giant monkey frog. It contains bioactive peptides that interact with the body’s immune, endocrine, and nervous systems. Indigenous tribes use it to enhance physical endurance, cleanse toxins, and sharpen their senses before hunting.

Potential Benefits of Kambo


While scientific research on Kambo is still emerging, many people report positive effects, including:

1. Detoxification and Immune Boosting

Kambo is known for its purgative properties, often inducing vomiting and sweating. This deep detox is believed to clear out toxins, reset the immune system, and promote overall health.

2. Increased Energy and Mental Clarity

After a Kambo session, many people report feeling more energized, focused, and mentally sharp. Some describe it as a “reset” that helps clear brain fog and improve motivation.

3. Emotional and Spiritual Healing

Kambo is often sought for emotional release. Many users experience a deep emotional purge, releasing stored traumas or negative patterns. It’s also used in spiritual circles for energetic cleansing.

4. Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Studies suggest that certain peptides in Kambo have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Some people with chronic pain or autoimmune conditions turn to Kambo as an alternative therapy.

5. Support for Anxiety and Depression

While not a medical treatment, some people report relief from anxiety and depression after Kambo. The experience is often described as grounding and mood-lifting, helping to break negative thought cycles.

What to Expect in a Kambo Ceremony

Kambo is typically administered by a trained practitioner in a ceremonial setting. Here’s a very brief and general outline of what happens:

1. Preparation – Fasting and hydration are often recommended beforehand.

2. Application – Small burns are made on the skin, and the Kambo secretion is applied.

3. Immediate Effects – Nausea, vomiting, sweating, and an increased heart rate may occur for about 20–40 minutes.

4. Recovery – After the purge, participants often feel a sense of clarity, calm, and renewed energy.


kambo being harvested from phyllomedusa bicolor.

Kambo contains many bioactive peptides

These peptides work together, creating Kambo’s intense but short-lived physical effects, followed by a sense of clarity and well-being. Research on their medical applications is ongoing, particularly in pain management and immune support.

  1. Dermorphin

    • Properties: A potent opioid peptide that binds to mu-opioid receptors, providing powerful pain relief, reportedly stronger than morphine.​

    • Source: "Rediscovery of old drugs: the forgotten case of dermorphin for postoperative pain and palliation" ​en.wikipedia.org

  2. Deltorphin

    • Properties: An opioid peptide with high selectivity for delta-opioid receptors, which may influence mood and well-being.​

    • Source: "Rediscovery of old drugs: the forgotten case of dermorphin for postoperative pain and palliation" ​en.wikipedia.org

  3. Phyllocaerulein

    • Properties: A peptide with hypotensive properties, affecting blood pressure regulation.​

    • Source: "Kambo and its Multitude of Biological Effects: Adverse Events or Pharmacological Effects?" ​clinmedjournals.org

  4. Phyllokinin

    • Properties: A vasodilator that helps expand blood vessels and improve circulation.​

    • Source: "Kambo and its Multitude of Biological Effects: Adverse Events or Pharmacological Effects?" ​clinmedjournals.org

  5. Phyllomedusin

    • Properties: A peptide that stimulates the salivary, tear, and intestinal glands, contributing to Kambo’s intense purging effects.​

    • Source: "Kambo and its Multitude of Biological Effects: Adverse Events or Pharmacological Effects?" ​clinmedjournals.org

  6. Sauvagine

    • Properties: Similar to corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), influencing stress response and hormone regulation.​

    • Source: "Kambo and its Multitude of Biological Effects: Adverse Events or Pharmacological Effects?" ​clinmedjournals.org

  7. Dermaseptin

These peptides contribute to the complex pharmacological profile of Kambo, and ongoing research is exploring their potential therapeutic applications.​clinmedjournals.org+1pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+1

Note: While these peptides have shown promise in preliminary studies, comprehensive clinical trials in humans are still needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety.