Name: Kambo
Type: Traditional Medicine
AKA: Sapo, Campu
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II. Natural Derivative
Kambo is derived from the secretions of the Giant Monkey Frog (*Phyllomedusa bicolor*). The substance is not a plant but a frog secretion.
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III. Chemical Profile (IUPAC name)
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IV. History
Kambo has been used traditionally by indigenous peoples of the Amazon Basin for its purgative and stimulating effects. It is applied to the skin in a ritualistic ceremony.
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VI. Physical Effects
Kambo application can cause a variety of physical responses, including intense nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate. The effects are generally short-lived but can be quite intense. Long-term physical effects are not well-documented, but the substance is known for its strong purgative action.
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VII. Psychological Effects
Kambo's psychological effects include altered perceptions and heightened emotional responses during and after the purge. The experience can be intense and challenging, often accompanied by a sense of spiritual or emotional cleansing. Long-term psychological impacts are less understood.
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VIII. Culture
Kambo is traditionally used by indigenous tribes in the Amazon as part of purification rituals and spiritual practices. The ceremony is often performed by a shaman and involves the application of Kambo to small burns on the skin, leading to a strong purgative effect.
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