Kambo's primary active components are peptides – short chains of amino acids – that act as natural messengers within the body. These peptides interact with specific receptors, initiating targeted biological responses that can facilitate healing processes. Kambo secretion contains a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including over 70 identified peptides, many of which are being investigated for their potential therapeutic uses. It's important to note that research is ongoing, and the full spectrum of Kambo's components may not yet be fully understood.

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Key Peptides and Their Biological Effects:

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Here's a detailed look at some of the key peptides found in Kambo and their known or suspected actions. While we aim to be comprehensive, it's possible that not every single peptide has been identified or fully characterised. The exact composition can also vary slightly.

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• Opioid Peptides (Dermorphin, Deltorphin): These peptides bind to mu-opioid and delta-opioid receptors, respectively, in the nervous system. They possess potent analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Dermorphin, in particular, is significantly more potent than morphine.

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• Caerulein and Phyllocaerulein: These peptides stimulate smooth muscle contraction, aiding in digestion and detoxification. They also exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects and can influence gastric secretions.

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• Sauvagine: This peptide interacts with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, modulating cortisol levels and potentially reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

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• Dermaseptins (including Dermaseptin B2, B3, and B4): These peptides have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, effective against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and even some cancer cells in vitro. Dermaseptin B2 has shown promise in preclinical studies for disrupting tumor growth and angiogenesis.

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• Adenoregulin: This peptide is believed to support cardiovascular health by enhancing blood flow and regulating inflammation. It may also promote cellular energy production.

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• Phyllokinin: This peptide is a vasodilator, relaxing blood vessels and potentially improving circulation and lowering blood pressure.

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• Phyllomedusin: This peptide has potent effects on smooth muscle contraction, contributing to Kambo's effects on the digestive system and potentially influencing blood pressure.

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• Phyllolitorin: Similar to caerulein, this peptide stimulates smooth muscle and may affect gastric secretions.

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• Neurokinin B: This peptide is involved in various physiological processes, including neurotransmission and inflammation.

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• Bradykinin-related peptides: These peptides can have vasodilatory effects, potentially improving circulation.

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• Bombesin and Bombesin-like peptides: These peptides can affect gastrointestinal function and may have other regulatory roles in the body.

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• Tryptophan-related peptides: These peptides may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

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• Other Peptides: Research continues to identify and characterise additional peptides in Kambo, including some with potential effects on the immune system, nervous system, and other physiological processes.