Inside Kambo: Poison, Purging, and The People Who Swear By It : 1455
Apr 24, 2026 · 44m
Summary
Andrew Huberman interviews Caitlin Thompson about Kambo, a poison frog secretion used for healing and performance. They discuss its peptide pharmacology, traditional Amazonian origins, and modern applications for autoimmune issues and trauma. Thompson shares her personal recovery story, details the intense physical experience, and addresses safety risks like hyponatremia. The episode also covers the lack of scientific research, sustainability concerns, and the potential for synthetic alternatives.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Viome and iRestore
Guest intro: Kaylin's journey with Kambo and autoimmunity
Biohacking, resilience, and the cell danger response
Historical origins and traditional uses of Kambo
The Kambo ceremony: application, effects, and safety
Pharmacology, peptides, and recent clinical studies
Sponsors: iRestore and Gatlin
Scientific challenges and practitioner training standards
Legality, sustainability, and synthetic alternatives
Indigenous lore, rituals, and spiritual context
Sponsor: TrustedHousesitters
Safety risks, LD50, and interactions with Ayahuasca
Conclusion, resources, and the psychology of pain
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