Iboga: Sacred Gabonese plant and powerful hallucinogen

An initiated participant extracts the iboga root in Ndossy Village, Akanda on February 13, 2025. Iboga, the powerful psychoactive root, that has effects similar to LSD, mescaline or amphetamines has long been used by people in Gabon's forests for its sacred and psychotropic properties. Used to make a drug that has been touted as a potential healer of heroin and cocaine addiction among other things, international interest has now prompted producers in Gabon to try to capitalise on the resource. (Photo by Nao Mukadi / AFP)
An initiated participant extracts the iboga root in Ndossy Village, Akanda on February 13, 2025. Iboga, the powerful psychoactive root, that has effects similar to LSD, mescaline or amphetamines has long been used by people in Gabon's forests for its sacred and psychotropic properties. Used to make a drug that has been touted as a potential healer of heroin and cocaine addiction among other things, international interest has now prompted producers in Gabon to try to capitalise on the resource. (Photo by Nao Mukadi / AFP)
Source: AFP

For centuries, Iboga, a revered psychotropic shrub, has been used by Gabonese spiritual practitioners for its mind-altering and reportedly addiction-fighting effects.

Its mystique captivates not only local devotees but also foreign visitors, psychiatric researchers, and pharmaceutical firms eyeing its commercial potential.

Despite strict export controls, scientists like microbiologist Yoan Mboussou believe Iboga could be a transformative force. “There’s real potential to leverage Iboga for our economy, our society, and the nation,” he says.

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