I believe it was about 56 years ago that I experimented with the drug ibogaine for the first (and last) time.
At least, I think I did.
I can’t be entirely sure because although I had purchased something I was assured was ibogaine, from an upperclassman at the college I attended, it could have been something else entirely. The seller seemed completely confident in the authenticity of his product. But then, most salesmen do.
I wanted to keep up with my friends, who were taking LSD, which I found somewhat scary. I preferred the idea of a plant-based, “natural” hallucinogen. That somehow seemed safer to me.
I was 18, remember.
All I recall of the experience is a few vivid, mildly disturbing images that must’ve been hallucinations. I don’t recall having any great insights, certainly nothing life-changing. Afterwards, I went on with my life, and a few weeks later, I’d largely forgotten the whole thing. Simply another minor rite of passage.
But now, ibogaine is back, in a big way. This time for its supposed vast potential as a treatment for addiction, of all things. Amazingly, its return has been accompanied by an investment of $50 million dollars, for research and development.
The money comes from, of all sources, the Texas state government.
Texas Invests $50M in Psychedelic Drug Research to Treat Addiction
Research efforts will apparently be focused on military veterans, including those with PTSD, depression, or anxiety, as well as addictions. I wondered why, but the political force behind the project —former governor Rick Perry — offered this explanation:
“If we had said we’re going to do this for the homeless or the prison population, the Legislature might not have been as willing to get on board…” So, it’s political. And the state of Texas will get a share of any future profits from the research.
There’s a real enthusiasm about the project. Some of the comments from experts and advocates sound positively starry-eyed.
Is this the miracle treatment we’ve been waiting for?
Perhaps. Perhaps not. After all, ibogaine has been associated with “… serious adverse effects that can occur due to undiagnosed health conditions and/or concomitant use of other drugs.” As well as 33 recorded deaths.
I’ll end with a link to a Science Direct summary on the drug. It’s pretty comprehensive, so if you’re interested in this newest of New Waves of ancient psychedelics, have a look.
