As one of the world’s leading ibogaine treatment centers, we get asked a lot of questions about ibogaine treatment. To save you some time, and address your concerns, here are 10 of the most frequently asked questions we receive at Tabula Rasa Retreat.

1) Is Ibogaine Safe?

This is obviously everyone’s number one concern, and it should be. Ibogaine is a powerful substance which has profound effects on the functioning of the body and the brain. If used without proper precautions, potentially fatal side-effects could occur. But if you use ibogaine with an experienced and responsible provider, you’ll be screened for any conditions which would put you at risk, the dose will be appropriate for what your body can handle, and an effective emergency plan will be in place should any problem arise. When used in the right environment, with proper precautions in place, ibogaine treatment is safe. For more on ibogaine safety, click here! 

2) Will Ibogaine Treatment Cure Me?

While we’d love to tell you that ibogaine alone can end your addiction, the short answer to this is NO. If you are an addict, ibogaine will interrupt your addiction, removing and lessening withdrawal symptoms for a variety of substances, and dramatically reducing cravings for a period of 3-6 months. While for a small minority of addicts, this alone is enough to end addiction, the vast majority of patients need to address the trauma and emotional pain which underlies their addiction, and learn to create a healthy way to deal with triggers, stress, pain, and cravings.

3) Can I Start Treatment Today?

We have found that ibogaine can only be used safely with appropriate detox and screening procedures. We have also found treatment to be far more effective if pre-treatment precedes the administration of ibogaine, allowing you to focus on the issues you need to explore, and your intentions and goals as you undergo this life-altering journey. So, the short answer is no. However, we understand the urgency you feel, and the necessity of getting into treatment quickly when you are motivated to reclaim your life, and we will work as quickly as we can to begin the intake process and get you on the road to recovery!

5) How Long Do I Need To Stay?

We know this is an issue for many, as families, children, careers, and your finances are all factors that influence the decision on how long treatment ought to last. We try hard to accommodate the needs of our guests, but we’d recommend a stay of no less than 2 weeks. You need to get yourself prepared and adjust to a new environment in order to ensure ibogaine therapy is effective. And the treatment is guaranteed to leave you physically and mentally drained. Recovering in a sanctuary with a variety of therapeutic options, trained counsellors, and a relaxing and stress-free environment is strongly recommended.

5) How Does Ibogaine Work?

Ibogaine has two main mechanisms for helping the addicted. The first is the dream-like oneirogenic state which enables those under its influence to gain a deeper understanding of their relationship with their addictive focus. With guidance, a new understanding of the self will enable sufferers to understand and change their destructive and negative patterns of thought and behaviour. The other mechanism is a variety of reactions it causes in the central nervous system. Due to complex interactions between a variety of neurotransmitters and receptors, ibogaine reduces withdrawals and cravings related to opiate and opioid use. It also resets levels of dopamine in the brain to a “pre-addicted state”, and has been shown to help those suffering from depression, PTSD, anhedonia, and other disorders as well as addiction.

6) What Will Treatment Feel Like?

The experience usually begins with a buzzing sound, and perhaps a bout of nausea. This is followed by an “acute” phase which lasts 4-8 hours which is akin to a waking dream, and may include auditory and visual hallucinations. Next is a contemplative phase, which can last from 8-20 hours. It is recommended to experience this in a quiet, calm environment where you can reflect on the insights and memories you have unearthed. Next is a period of 1-3 days during which you “come down”, returning from the experience of ibogaine to the external world, and beginning to regain your physical strength. For more details, click here! 

7) What Other Treatments Complement Ibogaine Therapy?

We have found that a variety of holistic and therapeutic treatments work in tandem with ibogaine therapy to deliver impressive results. And following treatment, you’ll be uniquely receptive to making positive changes in your thinking, habits, and lifestyle. Yoga is a great way to rebuild your strength and physical health while also practicing mindfulness. Meditation is also a wonderful tool for reconnecting with your best self. And we have seen amazing positive outcomes from Naikan therapy, a Japanese practice which focuses on building a sense of gratitude and exploring our relationships with those around us. 

8) Can I Receive Treatment During The COVID-19 Pandemic?

Yes, you can! Although we have instituted a safety protocol which includes quarantine and negative tests, our doors are open, and we are committed to fighting addiction during the pandemic.

9) Why Is Treatment So Expensive?

Ibogaine has powerful side-effects, and in order to provide safe treatment we take a lot of precautions. These include a battery of tests, a medical doctor to oversee treatment, ECG/EKG monitoring, and an ACLS certified staff. While we strive to keep our costs as low as we can, providing a safe environment isn’t cheap. But it is worth every penny. For more information on our fees, click here.

10) What Is Your Exclusion Criteria?

If you suffer from a heart condition, certain mental illnesses, respiratory illnesses, HIV/AIDS, poor kidney and liver function, or another medical issue listed here, we are afraid we cannot offer you treatment. Erring on the side of caution is our principle, and while another provider might treat you, we’d recommend that you explore another treatment option.

If you have any other questions about ibogaine or the services we provide, we are happy to help. Get in touch with us today, and find out more about ibogaine’s healing power.

Tabula Rasa Retreat has rapidly positioned itself as Europe’s premier ibogaine clinic. Located in the Alentejan region of Portugal, its clientele is mainly from the United Kingdom, Northern Europe, UAE and the USA. All treatments undergo medical vetting and are medically monitored and supervised. Our medical staff are ACLS trained. To support ibogaine treatments, expect holistic therapies such as breathwork, bodywork, massage, meditation, kundalini yoga, reiki, gong baths, drumming circles, equine assisted therapy, personal training and nutrition advice. This is further supported by 1:1 counselling and group therapy by our in-house counsellors.

For further information visit www.tabularasaretreat.com or call PT +351 965 751 649 UK +44 7961 355 530