Frequently Asked Questions

Ibogaine is a naturally occurring compound found in the root bark of the African shrub Tabernanthe iboga. It has been used for centuries in traditional Bwiti spiritual ceremonies. Current research explores its potential for treating opioid addiction, PTSD, depression, traumatic brain injury, and other mental health conditions. Unlike conventional treatments, ibogaine appears to work on multiple neurological systems simultaneously, potentially addressing both the physical and psychological dimensions of addiction and trauma.

Research suggests ibogaine may benefit individuals with substance use disorders (particularly opioid dependence), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and conditions involving impaired neuroplasticity — such as traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, ibogaine is not appropriate for everyone. Pre-existing cardiac conditions, certain psychiatric conditions, and specific medications may make ibogaine unsafe. Medical screening is essential before any treatment.

No. Ibogaine is not a cure. Research and clinical experience suggest it can be a powerful tool that interrupts addiction patterns and creates a window for recovery — but lasting change typically requires ongoing support, integration therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Americans for Ibogaine (AFI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that promotes awareness, education, and research regarding ibogaine for mental health and addiction recovery. We work with policymakers, researchers, clinicians, and advocates to advance the FDA approval pathway for ibogaine therapy.

No. AFI does not provide treatment, medical advice, or financial assistance for treatment. Our focus is on education, research advocacy, and policy engagement. For treatment resources, please visit our Get Help page.

AFI is not affiliated with any international treatment providers and does not provide grants or financial assistance for ibogaine treatment. Some nonprofit organizations may serve veterans, first responders, or athletes — visit our Get Help page for a list of vetted partner organizations. Currently, U.S. insurance does not cover ibogaine therapy.

Ibogaine is currently classified as a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level, meaning it is not approved for medical use in the United States. However, several states have enacted or are considering legislation to fund ibogaine research and explore pathways to medical access. Texas has allocated $50 million for FDA-supervised clinical trials. Americans for Ibogaine supports the FDA approval pathway — not decriminalization or broad legalization.

As of late 2025, over a dozen states have active, pending, or enacted legislation related to ibogaine research and access — including Texas, Arizona, California, Indiana, Nevada, and others. Visit our Legislation page for a current state-by-state tracker.

Yes. Notable research includes the Stanford University clinical trials with military veterans (published in Nature Medicine), multiple studies on opioid withdrawal reduction, systematic reviews of ibogaine literature, and ongoing neuroplasticity research. The evidence base is growing, though larger-scale clinical trials are needed — which is exactly what AFI advocates for.

FDA approval requires ibogaine to pass through the standard drug approval process: preclinical research, Phase I-III clinical trials demonstrating safety and efficacy, and New Drug Application review. This process takes years but is the only route to legal, insured, widespread access in the United States.

There are several ways to support the movement: sign up for our newsletter, contact your legislators about ibogaine research, volunteer at events, share our mission on social media, or make a tax-deductible donation. Visit our Take Action page for specific opportunities.

We welcome personal stories from individuals whose lives have been impacted by ibogaine therapy. All stories are handled with informed consent, the option for anonymity, and a commitment to dignity and accuracy. Visit our Share Your Story page to learn more about sharing your experience.