Revisiting the Case for Ibogaine / Iboga:
Addressing the Addiction Crisis
In 2014, I advocated to the LDS Church for consideration of ibogaine or iboga as a solution to our drug addiction problem. Ten years later, the urgency to address drug addiction has only intensified, with addiction contributing to societal sorrows and hindering global efforts to combat our climate crisis and other urgent issues.
This updated blog entry explores why ibogaine remains a promising solution, the current state of the addiction crisis, the societal benefits of solving it, and strategies to empower this effective drug addiction treatment.
According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, the USA's CDC
"About Overdose Prevention
What to know
decades, with deaths increasing more than 500%
between 1999 and 2022.Deaths involving multiple drugs
(i.e., polysubstance overdose deaths) also increased.
Drug overdose death disparities are widening.
Substance use and substance use disorders (SUDs),
especially those that lead to drug overdose deaths,
are prominent public health issues."
Why Ibogaine?
Ibogaine is a naturally occurring psychoactive substance derived from the Tabernanthe iboga plant that has shown remarkable potential in treating addiction, particularly to opioids.
Unlike traditional treatments, most with low success rates for breaking addictions for long periods of time, ibogaine disrupts the cycle of addiction by resetting the brain's reward system, reducing withdrawal symptoms, and addressing the psychological roots of addiction. This holistic approach offers a new path for those trapped in the cycle of substance abuse, solving the problem at the level of cause.
The Escalating Addiction Crisis
National and international drug addiction rates have reached alarming levels.
In the United States, opioid overdoses remain a leading cause of death, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl exacerbating the crisis. Globally, addiction is intertwined with social instability, poverty, and crime, making it a multifaceted challenge that requires innovative solutions. The addiction crisis is not just a health issue; it's a societal one, with far-reaching impacts on communities, economies, and the environment.
Societal Benefits of Solving Addiction
Addressing addiction can yield profound societal benefits. Reducing addiction rates would alleviate the burden on healthcare systems, reduce crime, and improve community well-being. Moreover, by restoring individuals to their full potential, society can harness the talents and energies of those who might otherwise be lost to addiction. In the context of our current climate crisis, this is particularly crucial. We need every capable hand to contribute to the global effort to restore ecological balance, and helping those struggling with addiction is a step toward that goal.
Strategies for Including Ibogaine in Treatment
To integrate ibogaine into the mainstream, we must first advocate for further research and clinical trials to solidify its efficacy and safety profile. Governments and health organizations need to recognize ibogaine as a viable treatment option and create regulatory frameworks that allow for its controlled use. Additionally, education campaigns are essential to inform both healthcare providers and the public about ibogaine's potential.
Collaborating with religious and community organizations, like the United Nations and the missionaries at the LDS Church, can also play a pivotal role in destigmatizing addiction and promoting ibogaine as a treatment option. These organizations often have the reach and influence needed to shift public perception and policy. By framing addiction treatment as both a moral imperative and a practical necessity, we can mobilize broader support for innovative solutions like ibogaine.
Conclusion
The addiction crisis is a pressing issue that demands new approaches. Ibogaine offers a promising solution that not only addresses the symptoms of addiction but also tackles its root causes. As we face unprecedented challenges, including the global climate crisis, it is imperative that we empower every individual to contribute positively to society. By supporting ibogaine research and integration, we can make strides in solving the addiction crisis and, in turn, strengthen our collective ability to address the broader challenges facing humanity.
