Iboga: culture, law and serious risks
Central to the Bwiti tradition of Gabon. Covered by the Psychoactive Substances Act in the UK, and linked to serious heart risks.
In Bwiti, iboga root bark is part of initiation and community ritual guided by elders, with music, dance and teaching. Gabon considers iboga a national cultural heritage, and wild iboga has been put under pressure by demand from abroad.
In the UK
Iboga and ibogaine are not listed as Class A, B or C drugs, but they are psychoactive substances under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. Producing, supplying, offering, importing or exporting them is a criminal offence with up to 7 years in prison. HHUK does not encourage anyone to take them.
Serious risks
- Ibogaine can disturb the heart’s rhythm. Deaths have been reported, including in people with no known heart problem.
- The risk is higher alongside alcohol, other drugs (including opioids) or some medicines.
- If someone becomes unwell after taking it, call 999.
Sources and further reading
- FRANK: honest information about drugs (0300 123 6600) (opens in a new tab)
- legislation.gov.uk: Psychoactive Substances Act 2016 (opens in a new tab)
Credit: Educational overview in our own words, honouring the Bwiti tradition of Gabon.
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