Kambo, a ritual that’s gaining traction in wellness circles, involves applying venom from an Amazonian tree frog to small burns on the skin. Once absorbed, it triggers intense vomiting, which is marketed as the body “purging toxins.” Unlike psychedelics, kambo isn’t mind-altering—it’s simply toxic, and the violent reaction is a stress response, not evidence of detoxification.
The practice carries real risks. Severe vomiting can cause dehydration, dangerous shifts in electrolytes, or even injury to the esophagus. Combined with the large volumes of water often consumed during rituals, it can also lead to water intoxication, while rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate pose additional dangers.
Experts warn that the supposed cleansing effect is a myth. The body already has highly effective systems—like the liver and kidneys—for processing toxins. What kambo delivers instead is unnecessary suffering and potential harm. As toxicologists put it, the science is clear: the risks outweigh any claimed benefits.
