The History of Kambo

Kambo, also referred to as Sapo by locals in Peru, stands out as a remarkable non-psychoactive traditional medicine hailing from the heart of the Amazon rainforest. This unique substance is derived from the secretions of the awe-inspiring giant monkey frog, scientifically known as Phyllomedusa Bicolor.

Renowned in Peru and Brazil as the "vaccine of the forest," Kambo holds a reputation as a detoxifying purgative, an immune-boosting elixir, and a potent remedy for chronic pain, imbalances and drug dependency.

In 1986, Kambo gained the attention of renowned Italian scientist and Nobel Prize nominee, Vittorio Erspamer, based at the University of Rome. After analyzing a sample of Kambo, he described it as containing a 'fantastic chemical cocktail' with unparalleled potential for medical applications among amphibians. The substances he referred to were peptides, which are short-chain amino acids that form the building blocks of proteins in our bodies.

Presently, there are approximately 70 Kambo patents filed, primarily in the United States. While scientists have been able to isolate and synthesize some of the peptides found in Kambo, there is simply no substitute for the authentic experience.

Among the peptides present in Kambo, some are classified as neuropeptides, which specifically target brain and body activity by interacting with neurons. These naturally occurring neuropeptides include insulin, oxytocin, collagen, creatine, and endorphins. Additionally, Kambo contains bioactive peptides, which consist of specific amino acid sequences that perform functions recognized as beneficial by the body.

At a cellular level, Kambo effectively opens up the body, enabling the removal of deposits left by foreign substances without causing stress to the cells. This unique combination of peptides acts as a key, allowing Kambo to penetrate the blood-brain barrier rather than being filtered out by the body's defense systems. As a result, Kambo becomes an incredibly potent method for addressing various ailments.

Key Kambo peptides include:

Phyllomedusin: This peptide strongly affects the digestive system and contributes to the purging effects of Kambo, inducing gut contractions. It also influences salivary glands, tear ducts, and deep purging processes.

Phyllokinin: Known for its impact on blood vessel dilation, Phyllokinin enhances blood flow in affected areas, facilitating the passage of other Kambo peptides across the blood-brain barrier. In addition to its physical effects, Kambo can contribute to better chemical balance in the brain.

Phyllocarulein: Another vasodilator that increases blood flow, Phyllocarulein helps lower blood pressure, promotes the flow of gut contents, and enhances stomach acid secretion. It stimulates both the pituitary gland and adrenal cortex, potentially leading to pain relief.

Adenoregulin: This peptide regulates the action of various neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, which initially induces a calming effect followed by increased focus, mental clarity, and heightened responsiveness to external stimuli. Adenoregulin has also shown efficacy in targeting cancer cells.

Deltorphins: With actions on opioid receptors, Deltorphins help alleviate pain and induce a sense of calm and euphoria. They can also positively impact addictive conditions.

Dermaseptin: Possessing potent antimicrobial properties, Dermaseptin combats fungal and bacterial infections. It actively fights and eliminates pathogens such as E. coli, salmonella, gonorrhea, herpes, viruses, HIV, candida, and malaria.

Sauvagine: This peptide reduces the frequency and intensity of brain activity by acting on the adrenal glands, triggering increased dopamine release.

Tryptophyllins: Highly potent against the yeast Candida, Tryptophyllins exhibit biological activity and show potential in cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer therapies.

Happy Kambo Utah woman sitting in Kambo ceremony with purge bucket and shoulder placement.
Happy Kambo Utah Kambo on male traditional upper arm placement
Happy Kambo Utah Kambo Ceremonies Holistic Healing

Why work with Kambo?

Kambo has been used to address a large spectrum of physical and emotional issues including:

  • Alzheimer’s disease

  • Parkinson’s disease

  • Cancer

  • Infertility

  • Chronic pain

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Migraines

  • Infection

  • Viruses

  • Addiction

  • Blood Circulation problems

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Diabetes

  • Arthritis

  • Inflammation

  • Autoimmune diseases

Physical Benefits

The bioactive peptides in Kambo help reduce inflammation in the body and has been known to help with depression, chronic pain, auto-immune disorders, parasites, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lyme Disease, chronic fatigue and more.

It stimulates blood circulation and the lymphatic system as it deeply cleanses and unlocks the body at a cellular level without stress to the cell (as opposed to most medications that directly target and penetrate the membrane).

Kambo has been reported to help with balancing hormones, candida, thyroid, and fertility problems. It can aid in reduction in symptoms of autoimmune diseases, migraines and anxiety, and has also been supportive to cancerous tumors, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients (more here).

Kambo is an incredible detox for deeply rooted toxins that work with gut and digestive issues. Reducing the toxin load helps with digestive balance, fungal infections, chronic imbalances and supports higher immunity.

It is also known to help with increased stamina and physical strength, as well as amplify access to the senses, clear negative energies, and aid in better sleep.

The Frog is amazing for post-illness recovery, preparing to sit with Ayahuasca, and to further deepen self empowerment and self discovery.


Emotional + Mental Benefits

Kambo can be an ally to those in addiction recovery and those moving though grief and loss, panic attacks, depression, and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

The Frog helps release and lessen the build of unprocessed emotions such as frustration, resentment, anger and anxiety. Kambo also can help to decrease depression symptoms and create the pathway for increased feelings of calmness that comes with a reduction of stress.

Kambo invites mental clarity, emotional release, and better connection to yourself and the way you interact with the world.


Spiritual + Energetic Benefits

The gifts of Kambo are many, including a concrete practice with surrender, and building your capacity to be present with discomfort and pleasure.

Many people feel deeper self trust and trust in a higher power after a Kambo journey, and have more positive, clear energy, heightened self-awareness, and a feeling of being more centered, aligned and connected. There is an energy and a feeling of freedom that comes from Kambo.

Kambo allows us to release what no longer serves us on multiple levels, and receive an overall purification of the mind, body and spirit. Many people sit with Kambo prior to Ayahuasca ceremonies as a way to clear the energy and prepare the mind prior to the psychological effects of ceremony.

What is the process?

Kambo sessions last about 2-2.5 hours, and you’ll be fine to drive home after the experience.

Josh will offer Hapé prior to administering Kambo to relax the mind and begin to open the body. You’ll be able to share your personal intention for Kambo, which may indicate the placement of the gates. For first timers, we recommend traditional placements (on the upper arm for men, and on the inner ankle for women), and we will intuitively work with you.

To begin, superficial burns known as 'gates' are carefully created on the skin, gently removing the top layer and exposing the lymphatic tissue. Once the gates are opened, you'll be asked to consume a generous amount of room temperature water to facilitate the ease of the detoxification process.

Following the gate openings, the sacred secretion from the frog is applied to the exposed burns, initiating the rapid onset of Kambo's effects. Participants often report sensations of heat flushing through the body, increased heart rate, and a sense of pressure in the head. We will be watching you and holding you though every step of the process.

It is not uncommon to experience nausea, which may lead to purging through vomiting or the need for a restroom purge. Additional effects can include mucus production, sweating, laughing, shaking, and the release of stored emotions. This integral aspect of Kambo aims to release physical and energetic toxins from the body. Anything that needs to happen to get you to the other side is welcome in the space.

Josh and Sara are both Reiki practitioners, and will offer energetic and physical support when needed. We may use an array of scents and sprays, as well as musical instruments such as drums, rattles, and sound bowls to support you and the space throughout the journey.

The post-Kambo effects can vary depending on an individual's health, but most people experience a profound afterglow characterized by increased energy, improved mood, reduced pain, heightened motivation, enhanced clarity, and an overall sense of peace and well-being. You’ll receive after-care instructions and will be able to reach out with any questions you have after your session.

For individuals dealing with chronic illnesses, a period of heavy detoxification may follow the Kambo session. As a potent antibiotic, Kambo effectively eliminates pathogenic bacteria residing in the body, leading to the opening and release of their bio-toxins. Subsequently, people generally report feeling better than before their Kambo experience once the die-off stage has passed.

While Kambo is not hallucinogenic or psychoactive like other spiritual Amazonian medicines such as Ayahuasca, it possesses a strong spiritual component. Many individuals gain clarity, release long-held emotions, recollect memories that were once forgotten, and experience profound synchronicities during their Kambo journey.

Is Kambo safe?

Kambo is not for everyone. Please review the list of Kambo Contraindications to see if you are a good candidate to sit with Kambo prior to working with us.

The peptides in Kambo have been identified as not toxic to human cells, but are toxic to fungus, bacteria, viruses and parasites. Kambo’s power is not to be taken lightly and should always be administered by a trained practitioner after reviewing a client’s medical history.

How do I book a session?

To work with us, please first fill our the New Client Form prior to booking. We have several options available, 1) a single session, 2) a series of three sessions, and 3) a series of six sessions. Please let us know what you would like so we can best support you. If you are already a client of ours, you can schedule here.

Our Offerings

  • Single Session

    $200 | Ideal after the completion of a three-series for deeper calibration and alignment.

  • Three-Series

    $550 | 3 Kambo Sessions within a 28-day period honoring the natural rhythm of the body.

  • Six-Series

    $1,000 | Ideal if working with an illness, addiction or a specific intention.