Kambo: The Warrior's Medicine of the Amazon

Kambo is more than a physical detox—it's a sacred Amazonian ritual rooted in ancient indigenous wisdom. For centuries, tribes such as the Matsés, Katukina, and Yawanawá have worked with this potent frog medicine to strengthen the body, clear the mind, and restore spiritual alignment.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what Kambo is, how it’s used, what to expect during a ceremony, and why it's important to honor its sacred roots.

What Is Kambo?

Kambo is a secretion from the Phyllomedusa bicolor, also known as the Giant Monkey Tree Frog. The frog is native to the rainforests of the upper Amazon, and when done in the traditional way - it is never harmed in the process of collecting its secretion—ethical practitioners work in deep relationship with the frog and its environment. As a Matses trained practitioner, not only do I source my medicine directly from the leaders of the Matses tribe, but I worked directly with them in the rainforest developing my own relationship to this incredible animal. Seeing first hand how the frog voluntarily gives us this incredible medicine without resistance, then returns to a seated position in our hands after, completely trusting us - a cooperative relationship built on mutual respect. I was so blessed to witness this first hand and collect the medicine myself for my own ceremony.

Traditionally, the Matsés and other tribes apply this medicine to prepare for hunting, to ward off bad luck, and to dispel what they call "panema"—a term for negative energies, emotional heaviness, or spiritual blockages. In the west, our use of the medicine isn't that far off from the traditional use. We may use it for physical ailment, personal strength, emotional heaviness, and spiritual blockages. its an incredible medicine that works across all fields - emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual.

The Ceremony: How Kambo Is Applied

Kambo is administered through small superficial burns made on the top layer of the skin, called “gates.” These are usually placed on the upper arm, shoulder, or lower leg. The secretion is then applied to these points and quickly enters the lymphatic system.

The effects begin within minutes and may include:

• Intense purging (vomiting, sweating, crying, bowel movements)

• Temporary dizziness or pressure

• A heightened sense of awareness and vitality following the session

A typical session lasts 20 to 40 minutes, but the after-effects can last for hours or days—most often described as increased clarity, energy, and a sense of emotional lightness. Its an incredible feeling, one that brings many of us back to the medicine time and time again!

Benefits of Kambo

Kambo is often referred to as an "ordeal medicine," meaning the experience is challenging but profoundly cleansing and empowering. Its benefits are physical, emotional, and spiritual:

Physical:

• Detoxifies the liver and intestines

• Stimulates immune function

• Enhances energy, stamina, and resilience

Emotional:

• Clears grief, anxiety, depression

• Releases stored trauma

• Cultivates courage and confidence

Spiritual:

• Reconnects you with your body and purpose

• Purifies energetic fields

• Strengthens spiritual boundaries

Aftercare & Integration

The real medicine of Kambo often unfolds in the days and weeks following the experience. Rest, hydration, and gentle nutrition are key. We offer an included integration call in the days following every kambo session, ensuring you have access to a trusted integration coach that can help you process any feelings and emotions that arise throughout your treatment. We also recommend:

• Journaling insights and emotional shifts

• Meditating or spending time in nature

• Avoiding heavy, toxic environments

Integration is a sacred process. Give yourself space to honor what Kambo has shown you.

Respecting the Medicine

Kambo is not a psychedelic and not a trend—it's a sacred, bioactive compound used ceremonially by indigenous peoples who have safeguarded its use for generations. It's essential to:

• Work with an indigenous trained, ethical practitioner

• Understand the medicine’s origins and purpose

• Honor the frog and the forest from which it comes

Approaching Kambo with reverence and intention is not only safer—it ensures the experience is transformative rather than traumatic. There are quite a number of "practitioners" out there offering the medicine in none traditional ways, without connection to the tribes, or ethical sources for the medicine. With the future of this frogs habitat threatened, with so many people endangering or harming these animals to acquire the medicine in unethical ways, it is important now more Ethan ever that you work with properly trained practitioners deeply committed to the preservation of these incredible animals and the traditions that have been protected by the indigenous tribes for millennia.

Who Should Avoid Kambo?

Kambo is powerful and not suitable for everyone. It is contraindicated for individuals who are:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding

• On SSRIs, MAOIs, or blood pressure medications

• Have a history of heart conditions, stroke, or epilepsy

• Have recently undergone surgery or have a compromised immune system

Always consult with your practitioner and disclose your full medical history before participating. A full medical evaluation is required before any of our practitioners will serve you medicine.

Final Thoughts

Kambo is a warrior’s medicine—a powerful tool for those ready to release what no longer serves and reclaim their vitality. It’s not an easy path, but it is a deeply rewarding one when approached with humility and intention.

If you feel called to work with Kambo, we invite you to learn more or connect with our ceremonial offerings at kanokaya.com.

May your path be clear, your heart strong, and your spirit free.

- Joshua Scarpuzzi

Founder / Kambo Practitioner / Medicine Guide

After returning from his trip, Josh opened up the "Matses Handmade" section of our online shop which features handmade items made by the men and woman of the Matses tribe. 100% of what you pay for these items goes directly to the Matses artisans, and funds new projects building infrastructure and resources in their communities. Do to recent illegal mining and drilling, their land and resources are at risk. Forced to seek help from the world beyond their tribal lands, tribe leaders are now seeking assistance to build the necessary infrastructure that provides their people with clean water, food, and protection from outsiders aimed at taking advantage of their invaluable resources. If you feel called to make an impact beyond purchasing these items, we invite you to reach out and inquire into ongoing conservation projects that need additional funding.

Tags: #KamboMedicine #AmazonianHealing #FrogMedicine #KamboCeremony #HolisticHealing #PlantSpiritMedicine #ShamanicWisdom #SacredRituals #EnergeticCleansing #AlternativeMedicine