KAMBO
Kambo is derived from the secretion of the Amazonian giant waxy tree frog Phyllomedusa Bicolor. The secretion is comprised of a unique complex cocktail of bioactive peptides that produce incredible benefits to the body and mind. Italian pharmacologist Vittorio Erspamer of the University of Rome was nominated twice for the Nobel Prize and was the first scientist to analyze Kambo in the laboratory concluding that Kambo contains a “fantastic chemical cocktail with potential medical applications unmatched by any other amphibian.”
The benefits of Kambo stem from the bioactive peptides and neuropeptides found in the frog’s protective secretion. The bioactive peptides found in Kambo positively affect humans due to their health promoting properties and their similarity to peptides produced by the human body. They can exert several beneficial effects like preventing diseases or modulating physiology once they are absorbed. These peptides perform a broad range of functions on the various systems that they impact:
Gastrointestinal (anti-obesity and satiety peptides),
Cardiovascular (antihypertensive, antithrombotic, and hypocholesterolemic peptides),
Immune (antimicrobial/viral/fungal/protozoan and immune-modulating peptides) and
Nervous (opioid peptides)
Tribes of Amazon often refer to Kambo as “Hunting Magic” as it strengthens the physical body and mind. Kambo brings energy and stamina into the body and sharpens the senses. It makes the mind still and allows for clarity of thought. The small things that bother us daily do not seem to be as significant following a kambo session, allowing one to focus on the things that truly matter in life.
Uses of Kambo:
People turn to Kambo for many different uses, from physical to psychological. Although Kambo is not considered a medicine in the western sense of the word, many people have found relief from physical ailments. Kambo has analgesic properties that have the potential to provide pain relief up to 40 times stronger than morphine without the addictive high that comes with opiates. Many people who suffer from autoimmune diseases and chronic viral illnesses such as Lyme have found incredible benefits from Kambo, aiding in the relief of symptoms and returning life back into their body. Kambo has shown fantastic psychological benefits to those with depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
So, what are the peptides are in Kambo and what do they do?
Researcher and neurobiologist Caitlin Thompson identified 27 unique peptides in samples of the Kambo secretion. These peptides have been studied quite extensively individually, although no study has been done on the entire Kambo cocktail in it’s natural form. Fortunately, that is changing as C. Thompson has received approval for the first human trial in the US using Kambo— quite excited to see the results of this! If you’re interested in checking out the multitude of studies on Kambo, here is a great resource.
Please note: The list of studies and Kambo’s potential benefits have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Here are my top favorite peptides and some of their proposed biological effects:
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Both of these peptides have been shown in human study to provide significant pain relief in oncological, palliative, and post-operative pain. It is estimated to be 40-1000x stronger than morphine and without the deleterious side effects of opioids.
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Dermaseptins have been studied extensively for their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiprotozoal, antiparasitic, and anti-cancer effects. Despite being antimicrobial, they appear to have low toxicity in mammalian cells (aka- humans.) They also have the ability to break down biofilms which is theorized to be a reason it is so beneficial to those with chronic infections.
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These two classes of peptides have been studied for their benefit in reducing pain and improving mood. Sauvagine interacts with the HPA-axis and its theorized that it plays a role in many of Kambo’s noted benefits. These peptides are also partly responsible for the Kambo experience, including emesis, diarrhea, and drop in blood pressure.
Interested in learning more? Be sure to book a complimentary discovery call to speak to Sara and see if you’re a candidate for Kambo!
