Frequently Asked Questions

While we've shared our mission in many interviews, not every question gets answered every time. To make things easier, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions (and their answers) below.

  • Ibogaine is a naturally occurring compound found in the roots of the African shrub iboga, and it has been used for centuries in spiritual and healing ceremonies. More recently, it has gained interest from the medical and scientific communities.

    Ibogaine is being researched for its potential to treat opioid addiction, PTSD, depression, and other mental health conditions.

  • Americans for Ibogaine is an organization dedicated to promoting awareness, education, and research on ibogaine and plant-based medicines for mental health and addiction recovery.

  • No, we do not provide treatment or financial assistance to help patients travel to treatment centers.

    Our mission is to promote education, research, and advocacy for the responsible medical adoption of ibogaine.

  • Unfortunately, we are not directly affiliated with any international treatment providers and do not offer grants or financial assistance for treatment.

    If you’re seeking support, we recommend looking into nonprofit organizations that serve specific groups—such as veterans, first responders, or athletes—as some may offer limited help with ibogaine treatment costs. At this time, American health insurance providers do not cover expenses related to ibogaine therapy.

    To our knowledge, there are currently no organizations able to support civilians outside of these categories. That’s why advocacy for FDA-approved clinical trials and the medical use of ibogaine is so crucial.

    While existing nonprofits do important work within their respective communities, we believe access to life-saving treatment shouldn’t depend on your profession. Our mission is to help make medically supervised ibogaine treatment safe, legal, and accessible for everyone who needs it.

  • Our “Get Help” section offers a small but carefully selected list of ibogaine treatment providers, pre- and post-integration therapy, and guidance on finding reputable care.

    If you pursue treatment, it’s critical to be honest with your intake coordinator about any medical conditions, medications, or substances you’re using. The centers listed on our Resources page prioritize medical safety, follow strict intake protocols, and have qualified medical staff present during treatment.

    Please note: While we aim to highlight organizations that follow best practices, Americans for Ibogaine does not endorse or assume responsibility for any treatment provider. We encourage all individuals to do their own due diligence before making care decisions.

  • Research suggests that ibogaine may offer therapeutic benefits for individuals with:

    • Substance Use Disorders (SUD): Ibogaine has been studied for its potential to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with opioid dependence.

    • Mental Health Conditions: Preliminary studies indicate that ibogaine may alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

    • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Emerging evidence suggests that ibogaine can reduce PTSD symptoms, particularly in individuals with traumatic brain injuries.

    • Neuroregeneration: Ibogaine has been observed to promote neuroplasticity, potentially aiding in brain repair mechanisms.

  • Ibogaine is not legal or approved for medical use in the U.S. However, research and advocacy are ongoing to explore its potential benefits and expand access to safe treatment options.

  • Yes, several studies have explored the therapeutic potential of ibogaine:

    1. A preliminary trial involving military veterans with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) found that ibogaine administration led to improvements in depression, anxiety, and overall functioning.

    2. Clinical observations have reported that a single administration of ibogaine can lead to a significant reduction in opioid withdrawal symptoms and may facilitate sustained abstinence or reduced use over a 12-month period.

    3. A systematic literature review concluded that ibogaine is an effective intervention for substance use disorders, reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The review also noted potential benefits for depressive and trauma-related symptoms.

    4. Dr. Nolan Williams and researchers in his lab completed a pioneering research study of the use of ibogaine to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by traumatic brain injuries in U.S. Special Operations Forces Veterans. Published in Nature Medicine, researchers found that ibogaine, a plant-based psychoactive compound, when combined with a cardioprotective agent, safely led to improvements in depression, anxiety, and functioning among veterans with traumatic brain injuries.

    It’s important to note that ibogaine treatment carries risks, including potential cardiotoxic effects, and should only be administered under medical supervision.

  • You can support our mission by signing up for updates, participating in our advocacy efforts, or spreading awareness about ibogaine research and mental health.

    You’re also welcome to support us through a charitable donation to Americans for Ibogaine.