Ibogaine Recreational use
Casual use of ibogaine in a social or entertainment context is nearly unknown due to its high cost, constrained availability, long duration of effects, and uncomfortable short-term side effects. In the clandestine markets, ibogaine is typically sought as a drug addiction treatment, for ritual spiritual purposes, or psychological introspection.
Ibogaine is a naturally occurring psychoactive drug found in a variety of plant sources, but primarily in the iboga plant family. Used for ritual and healing purposes in many West African tribes, ibogaine is considered a central nervous system stimulant. While not as powerful as other stimulants, ibogaine increases energy and decreases fatigue in lower doses. In higher doses, ibogaine works as a psychoactive drug producing a dream like state while awake.
Ibogaine Effects
The most popular form of ibogaine is ibogaine hydrochloride. This form of the drug is stabilized as a salt.
This white powder is usually ingested in capsule form. The side effects of the substance begin within an hour of ingestion and the peak “high” lasts for about two hours. During that time, individuals find themselves in a dreamlike state while remaining fully conscious of their surroundings. Lack of coordination and dizziness are also side effects. An ibogaine hangover can linger for up to 48 hours and in the first 10 hours, those intoxicated of ibogaine need help for even the simplest of tasks including using the bathroom. Because of these extreme side effects, ibogaine is not often considered a recreational drug.
