Iboga: Sacred Gabonese plant and powerful hallucinogen

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.