Kambo is a traditional medicine practice that dates back roughly 800 years, originating in the upper amazon rainforests of Peru. Kambo comes from the secretion of the nocturnal frog species, PhylloMedusa Bicolor (the frog is never harmed in the process when ethically harvested). This potent secretion contains bio and neuro-peptides that help with various aspects within the mind-body-spirit.

Modern scientific studies have shown that Kambo contains multiple antimicrobial peptides effective against drug-resistant strains of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, parasites and virus. This research by Vittorio Erspamer, who was nominated for a Nobel Prize with his work in discovering Serotonin, was a major advocate for Kambo. Several other ailments have been associated with the effects of the frog’s secretion as well (Luna Wolf does not offer medical treatment).

The origins of the Kambo practice dates back 800 years with the Kaxinawá tribe. According to legend, a Kaxinawá shaman named Kampu had tried to cure many gravely ill members of his tribe as a plague had overcome many of them.

After many unsuccessful attempts to find a cure, Kampu went exploring the forest under the influence of ayahuasca, where he was reportedly given visions and guidance towards a powerful remedy. The spirit of ayahuasca placed a Phyllomedusa bicolor in Kampu’s hands and showed him how to use its skin secretion for healing. From then on, Kampu was known as Pajé Kampu (medicine man).

For generations to come, Kambo expanded to various tribes who used the medicine for their own wellbeing. A common use for Kambo was know to cure “Panema.” Treating Panema is like lifting off the dark cloud of energy that accumulates in our lives. Panema is also known as bad luck, depressed energy, fatigue, laziness, addictions and various diseases or other ailments. Tribes felt the sacred secretion also helped with fertility, gaining stamina for long hunting expeditions, sharpening ones senses, and causing more joy in the village within its members.

As Kambo is gaining more popularity around the world, many participants discover how it can be a valuable modality that synergizes with other plant medicine practices. For example, Kambo as a precurser to catalyze the benefits of ayahuasca or bufo has been used in many retreat centers and communities around the globe.

The set and setting for the treatment is of most importance. We conduct all ceremonies in a professional sanitary setup, while also offering the treatment in a ceremonial sacred atmosphere.

We use traditional Kambo Icaro healing songs, sound healing instruments, sage, guidance and space holding to make participants feel comfortable and safe with their experience.

Ceremonies are conducted in the Earth Room located in the downstairs section of the historic Lake Harriet Spiritual Community. Having a comfortable safe container is important when conducting treatments with the art of Kambo. We cap our group size at 12 individuals to promote an intimate environment where we can meet all the participants needs. During the summer months, Luna Wolf conducts outdoor ceremonies throughout the local region. (Private ceremonies are also available for individuals who can not make our monthly event.)

Applying the frog secretion is safe and easy. Points, gates, or dots, as they are referred to, are small burn marks lifting a thin layer of the outer skin. Sizes of the points are no larger than the tip of a medium sized marker, while the pain level is comparable to a mosquito or horse fly bite.

Participants should know that while the burns heal within a few weeks, they do leave a slight discoloration or scar. For this reason, some people have preferences for the location of the points and can have an esthetic design.

During the preparation of the sacrament, once the point and skin is opened up, we then prepare the dried frog secretion into a mucus form. We shape and mold the wet secretion into a small sized ball, which then is placed over the point on the body, entering the body to cross the blood brain barrier.

“Dragon’s blood” -- a natural plant resin -- is applied at the end of the ceremony to help heal the points, also acting as a natural band aid. Shortly after, we close the ceremonial space with an assessment of your personal process while having a discussion regarding integration. Individuals often will feel refreshed and rejuvenated going about their daily tasks, capable of driving home with improved energy, clarity and insight.

Before or after departure we highly recommend breaking fast with wholesome healthy food. Packing a small meal or snacks is helpful. Food intake is important for aiding in the further removal of toxins through digestion and bowel movements. Kambo also demands the energy from food for optimal recovery, restoring blood sugar and insulin levels.

The Test Point:

When we start the ceremony, we proceed with a single test point to observe any adverse reactions, which fortunately are extremely rare, and determine how many to do from there. A test point allows insights into any potential sensitivities that can be easily reversed given the small amount of Kambo applied. Newcomers also appreciate this to acclimate before diving in deeper.

The subtle reactions are quite pleasant, increasing vasodilation while loosening tension and anxiety within the body. The test point process typically takes 3-5 minutes. Soon after the participant feels comfortable and acclimated with the onset of the micro dose, we begin to apply the remainder of the secretion to the body over the next 10 minutes.

This First Phase:

This is often known as the warm flush. This can last up to 5-10 minutes given the participant’s biochemistry. One attribute of the experience is the strengthening and cleansing of the heart muscle with strong vasodilation to the body, often feeling very warm pleasant sensation. The ears, hands, feet, and cranial area can feel a sense of electrical tingling and can be a very gratifying, as the peptides are working and repairing many systems within the body.

The Second Phase:

This is where the blood pressure begins to safely lower, while the body is removing toxins into the bile tract. The bile that is produced by your liver contains toxins and heavy metals, where Kambo helps facilitate the removal of the bile. The participant will normally will feel nausea and have the early stages of the purge arising. The facilitators then assist with helping the participant purge into a small bucket.

The purge is viewed as a sacred release, removing energetic blockages, past trauma and toxins where much relief is often felt during and after the process. The participant also may need to use the toilet, as the body is cleansing itself and releasing toxins through the intestines. This second phase of Kambo can typically last 10-30 minutes in gradual increments and phases.

The Third Phase:

This is the rest and recovery which can last roughly 15-30 minutes. After the sacred purging, the body will begin to regulate itself with improved vitality and circulation. Often people will go into a deep sense of relaxation and meditation. This process is held in a sacred manner, using aroma therapy, calming music and some silence, as the senses of the body feel very alive and rejuvenated.

• The day of the ceremony, consume no more than 3 cups of water AND refrain from all liquids for 3 hours before the ceremony. You will drink all your water right before the treatment is applied.

• The fast from food is 8-20 hours before Kambo, meaning you don't consume calories for at least 8 hours. For some people, fasting is harmful, be mindful to your needs and don't push it too far. If it’s an evening ceremony, try eating a larger meal the night before your fast or a light meal no later than 8 hours before the ceremony. Morning ceremonies just skip breakfast and eat a light dinner.

• No alcohol or strong drugs for 48 hours. Don’t take your regular medication/supplements the day of the ceremony, you can wait until afterwards to take them though. If you feel you must take your medication, try to use it early in the morning prior or with your morning meal. Medications such as stimulants or SSRIs, we would suggest to do your best to take after the Kambo treatment.

• No sweat lodges the week before/after. No water fasting, enemas, or colonics 3 days before/after. No hot tubs or saunas 1 day before/after. They add too much to your electrolyte balance, which can pose a severe risk to your health.

The traditional method we use is 3 ceremonies in a series. This starts with the initial basic ceremony, 3-8 gates on the arm or leg. Depending on the length of your integration process, we follow with a second ceremony working the back and spine. This is followed with a third specialized ceremony, focusing on meridian points and optional auricular points. Often, beneficial results are being seen with the gradual progression, where individuals can opt for more Kambo ceremonies for further healing needs if deemed necessary.

A single ceremony may be enough to meet your needs while being highly beneficial. Although many practitioners advocate getting a series of 3-4 treatments within the timeframe of 1-4 months. Some participants like to progress with their ceremonies at a faster rate, while others may need longer breaks focusing on their integration. This will be assessed as we work Kambo together, having a in-depth conversation and evaluating what timeline works best for the individual.

Each Kambo ceremony you receive acts more and more efficiently building from the previous treatments. Kambo works in incremental layers, removing energetic and biological toxins in stages. Within the months of receiving the Kambo protocol, which can be called the initiation and inoculation process, the mind- body-spirit heals at a rapid rate.

Once the traditional protocol is complete, (3-4 ceremonies over 1-4 months) coming for a single ceremony maintenance session every 3 to 12 months will continue to improve and maximize your healing process. The continuation of the kambo practice is a practical way to strengthen your relationship with the medicine over the years to come.