Kambo
A 'fantastic chemical cocktail with potential medical applications, unequalled by any other amphibian’
-Vittorio Erspamer - Discoverer of Seratonin and twice nominated for Nobel Prize
Vacino de Floresta
The "fantastic chemical cocktail" that Mr. Erspamer was referring to is Kambo, one of the many names give to the secretion of the Giant Monkey Frog, Phyllomedusa Bicolor. Another name is Vaccino de Floresta, translated as the "vaccine of the forest". Much more has been learned about the Kambo secretion since his first analysis in 1979, and his statement on Kambo's healing potential were not overly exaggerated. Further research has shown the potential of the bio-active components of Kambo to be used as treatment of brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, depression, migraines, blood circulation problems, vascular insufficiency, organ diseases, skin and eye issues, fertility problems in women and men, AID’s, hepatitis, cancer, and more. It is one of the most antifungal, antimicrobial, antibacterial natural substances yet to be discovered and has proven it's effectiveness against viral infections as well. The presence of a large array of bio peptides make Kambo one the most effective ways of bolstering the immune system. Other interesting medicinal properties of this secretion are its anti-inflammatory and anesthetic effects.
One of the most common uses of Kambo is for the clearing of what they locals describe as "panema". This can be understood to mean heavy energy or ill fortune. Basically, Kambo clears away anything that isn't in service to our highest potential for health and living.
Kambo has long been revered by many of the tribes of native South American peoples. They respect the frog greatly as an ally and understand that their continued existence is dependant on their relationship with the frog's medicinal gift. Tribes like the Katukina, Matsés, Kaxinawá, and others rely on the application of Kambo for their health, giving them incredible endurance, resistance to thirst and hunger, and heightened focus, which they utilize to ensure their survival in the unforgiving rainforest climate.
The frogs have no natural predators and are easily collected at night by those that can recognize, and often imitate, their call. Typically their limbs are tied to posts, to induce stress to the frog, causing it to release it's secretion through its pores. This is collected and placed on a piece of wood, where it crystallizes and is stored for future application. Great care is taken not to harm the frogs and they are released afterwards.
Tradition of co-existEnce
Meeting the frog spirit
Together, we will meet in circle and open sacred space for the ceremony. Here we take a moment to meet and greet our tribe, set intentions, and discuss how the ceremony will flow. For the duration of ceremony, your process will be further guided through the use of healing mantras and rattling, to deepen the state of inward
Kambo is applied to the lymphatic system through very superficial burns placed on the skin using the ember end of a small stick. Care is taken to make the burns as rapidly and with as little discomfort as possible, and the wounds are later dressed with a tree resin to promote healing and reduce any chance for scarring.
The onset of the effects of Kambo can be intense, but are also over very quickly, with most people well into the calm and clarity phase within 15-25 minutes. Initially, one will experience an upward rising of energy. This may feel like heat or tingling. At times there is slight swelling of lips and tongue. There may be nausea and once in awhile people drift away from consciousness, but are never aware of this occurring and often quite surprised when they are told afterwards.
Kambo will cause one to vomit, and sometimes defecate, which is aided by the 2-3 liters of water that is consumed prior to and during ceremony. The purge facilitates the extraction of physical and emotional toxins that we may have accumulated in our systems. It is not something to fear, as the calmness and clarity afterward make all the effort well worthwhile.
After the brief moments of release, the Kambo is removed from the skin and recovery begins almost immediately. Participants are encouraged to rest and enjoy the inner reflections Kambo offers through meditation and conscious breathing. Afterwards, participants are encouraged to take a cold shower or swim in a natural body of water to further cleanse the spirit and share the blessings of water with the new energy of the frog that has become a part of their life's journey.
Contraindications
It is extremely important to be aware of some cases in which Kambo may put you at risk of harm. Please note that Kambo is not available under these conditions:
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Serious heart problems
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Stroke
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Brain hemorrhage
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Aneurysms or blood clots
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Lack the mental capacity to make the decision to take Kambô
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Serious mental health problems excluding depression and anxiety
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Undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy for 4-6 weeks afterward
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Immune-suppressants for organ transplant
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Currently pregnant or may be so
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Breastfeeding a child under 6 months old
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Addison’s disease
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Severe Epilepsy
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Are recovering from a major surgical procedure
It is also extremely important to make the practicioner aware of the following conditions:
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Crohns Disease
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Drug/Alcohol addiction
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Breastfeeding >6 months old
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Medication for low blood pressure
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History of ulcer/esophagus bleeding
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Have been fasting
The offering for the ceremony is 2150 Baht. To join us,
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dates and times and reserve a place. Bless!