The Tabernanthe Iboga plant, which contains ibogaine, a psychoactive alkaloid with origins in West-African spiritual ceremonies, possesses many unique properties that make ibogaine therapy effective for PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and its subtype, complex PTSD.
The reality is that living on this planet has always posed a challenge, often accompanied by suffering. Unfortunately, we are not immune to the external events that occur during our lifetime, which can leave a profound and lasting impact. In many cases, these experiences can not only rob us of the ability to enjoy life, but also the will to continue living. Such events may include traumatic experiences like physical or sexual abuse in childhood or adulthood, or prolonged exposure to violence as endured by military veterans.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe mental health condition that develops as a result of exposure to severe trauma, particularly when it is prolonged or repeated. PTSD is associated with a range of symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, addiction, and hyperarousal.
Despite the availability of conventional forms of therapy, such as talk therapy, antidepressants, and anxiety medication, these symptoms are notoriously difficult to treat. One reason for this may be that these treatments tend to focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing their root causes. Additionally, the underlying causes of PTSD symptoms are believed to lie in the subconscious, rather than the conscious mind.
In its efforts to alleviate PTSD symptoms, ibogaine has a dual approach. Not only does it work to reset the neural pathways in the brain, but it also tackles the subconscious. By doing so, ibogaine can be highly effective in reducing the impact of PTSD. On a psychological level, ibogaine can enable the re-experiencing and processing of traumatic memories, promoting therapeutic and insightful spiritual and personal visions. This is a crucial aspect of addressing the underlying psychological events associated with PTSD.
The Effect of Ibogaine on the Neural Pathways of the Brain
From a neurological standpoint, ibogaine interacts with various neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate. These neurotransmitters are critical in regulating both mood and emotions, and ibogaine works to restore them to their pre-PTSD or pre-addiction baseline levels. Additionally, ibogaine is believed to trigger the release of specific growth factors like Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a critical protein involved in the development and functioning of the nervous system. It is responsible for promoting the survival and growth of neurons in both the brain and spinal cord.
BDNF is also essential for the formation of new connections between neurons, known as synapses, which are crucial for memory and learning.
Furthermore, BDNF plays a crucial role in protecting neurons from damage and supporting their repair. This protein is distributed widely throughout the brain, with particularly high concentrations found in areas that are responsible for memory and learning, such as the hippocampus.
Therefore, one of the key benefits that make ibogaine therapy effective for PTSD is its ability to target the root causes of the condition in a focused and systemic way.
Unlike conventional PTSD treatments such as therapy and medication, which primarily aim to manage symptoms, ibogaine targets the fundamental neural mechanisms that give rise to PTSD. This approach often results in more enduring and potent outcomes.
Ibogaine is believed to have exceptional efficacy in the treatment of complex PTSD, a variant of PTSD that arises from chronic or repeated traumatic episodes.
Complex PTSD is distinguished by more severe and persistent symptoms, and conventional therapies may be even less effective. Due to its capacity to reconfigure the brain’s neural pathways, ibogaine is especially valuable in assisting individuals with complex PTSD in overcoming the cycle of trauma and its detrimental coping mechanisms.
What makes ibogaine therapy effective for PTSD is that it provides a fast and lasting relief from symptoms. Participants in a study reported a considerable decrease in symptoms in just one day after receiving ibogaine treatment, which continued to be effective for at least six months. This is a marked difference from traditional treatments for PTSD, which typically require weeks or months to demonstrate improvement.
When used in a safe medical setting and after conducting initial blood tests and cardiac evaluations, ibogaine is generally safe and has a low incidence of adverse effects. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and ataxia. Although the visions induced by ibogaine can be powerful and lifelike, they can also reveal underlying traumas that have been hidden in the depths of the subconscious.
Another reason which makes ibogaine effective for PTSD is because it has a low risk of addiction and abuse. This is not only due to its detoxifying effects on the brain’s addiction centers, but also because its intense hallucinations can be difficult to tolerate.
In contrast, conventional treatments for PTSD typically involve addictive drugs like benzodiazepines and antidepressants. Additionally, ibogaine is often used to treat substance abuse disorders, further highlighting its potential as a safe and effective alternative treatment for PTSD.
Big Pharma companies have been resistant to the legalization of ibogaine, possibly because they stand to lose millions of dollars if the substance were to become commercially available. For these companies, it would not be financially viable to promote a medication that could provide rapid and effective relief for those suffering from PTSD after just one or two treatments.
Instead, it is more profitable to keep patients dependent on antidepressants and benzodiazepines, which have a higher risk of addiction and abuse, thereby generating a greater profit margin.
Here at Tabula Rasa Retreat, we have successfully treated numerous clients with varying degrees of PTSD and complex PTSD. Many of our clients have reported significant improvements in their conditions, along with a newfound sense of purpose and a release from emotional and spiritual blockages, thanks to our holistic practices and personalized coaching strategies.
For further information visit www.tabularasaretreat.com or call PT +351 965 751 649 UK +44 7961 355 530