​

Kambo is a powerful and sacred medicine used for centuries by indigenous tribes in the Amazon rainforest. When administered responsibly and under the care of a trained practitioner, Kambo is generally safe and offers profound benefits. However, its safe use requires a deep understanding of its effects, careful preparation, and adherence to important guidelines. At the Kambo Practitioner Alliance (KPA), safety is our highest priority.

​

Understanding Kambo Safety

 

Kambo contains bioactive peptides that work with the body’s systems to promote detoxification, healing, and immune support. While it is not inherently dangerous, proper administration is essential to ensure a safe and beneficial experience.

​

Key Factors in Kambo Safety

​

1. Qualified Practitioners:
   Safety starts with the person administering Kambo. Trained practitioners understand how to prepare participants, monitor them during the session, and respond to any complications. Find a practitioner here

2. Health Screening:
   A thorough health assessment is critical to identify any contraindications. Conditions such as heart conditions, epilepsy, or pregnancy make Kambo unsuitable. See more contraindications here 

3. Hydration Guidelines:
   Drinking water before a Kambo session is essential to aid the purging process, but overhydration can lead to hyponatremia, a condition where sodium levels in the blood become dangerously low.

​

The Risk of Hyponatremia

 

Hyponatremia is one of the most significant risks associated with Kambo if water intake is not properly managed. It occurs when excessive water dilutes the body’s sodium levels, disrupting the balance of fluids and electrolytes.

​

Symptoms of Hyponatremia:

• Confusion or disorientation

• Nausea and vomiting

• Muscle weakness

• Headache

• In severe cases, seizures, coma, or even death

​

Hyponatremia can occur if participants drink too much water too quickly before or during the ceremony. This risk is further elevated in situations where fasting, salt deprivation, or participation in sweat lodges or saunas precede the session, as these practices may deplete the body’s sodium reserves.

​

Preventing Hyponatremia

 

To minimize the risk of hyponatremia and ensure safety during a Kambo ceremony:

​

1. Follow Practitioner Guidelines:

   • Drink only the amount of water recommended by your practitioner, typically 1–1.5 liters, depending on individual factors.

   • Avoid drinking excessive water in the hours leading up to the ceremony.

2. Replenish Sodium:

   • If you’ve been fasting or participating in sweat lodges, replenish sodium levels before the ceremony with foods like soups, broths, or electrolyte drinks.

   • Maintain a balanced diet in the days leading up to the session to ensure your body’s electrolyte levels are stable.

3. Experienced Monitoring:

   • Work only with practitioners who are trained to recognize the early signs of hyponatremia and manage hydration appropriately.

​

Are There Allergic Reactions to Kambo?

 

To date, no allergic reactions to Kambo have been reported. The peptides in Kambo are natural compounds that interact with the body’s receptors, and their effects are physiological rather than allergenic. This makes Kambo unique among traditional medicines, as it does not trigger immune-mediated allergic responses.

​

How KPA Ensures Safety

 

At the Kambo Practitioner Alliance, we have implemented strict protocols to prioritise safety:

1. Comprehensive Training:
   Our practitioners undergo extensive education on hydration guidelines, sodium management, and emergency protocols to prevent and address complications like hyponatremia.

2. Health Screenings:
   All participants complete a detailed health questionnaire to identify contraindications and assess individual needs.

3. Clear Preparation Guidelines:
   Practitioners provide participants with clear instructions on hydration, nutrition, and preparation, tailored to their unique circumstances.

4. Real-Time Monitoring:
   During the ceremony, practitioners monitor participants closely to ensure they remain safe and comfortable throughout the process.

Final Thoughts

 

Kambo is a powerful tool for transformation, but its safety relies on proper preparation and administration. By understanding the risks of hyponatremia and following practitioner guidelines, you can experience Kambo’s profound benefits with confidence.

At the Kambo Practitioner Alliance, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of care, ensuring every participant’s journey with Kambo is safe, ethical, and transformative.

​