During kambo ceremonies, small 'gates' are made on the skin with a quick touch of a hot stick, removing just the top layer of skin. There is no blood and generally no pain. Traditionally, males have this performed on their upper arm, and females on their leg. However, it can be performed almost anywhere. The pattern is up to you, and most people wear their kambo dots with pride - they fade away within a few months.

Kambo sessions begin in the lymphatic system and come on quickly. As the process begins aiding the systems and functions of your body, there is a warmth and flushing of the skin, increased heart rate, and rushing in the head and upper body. You may feel some stomach churning and nausea as your liver begins to cleanse itself into the stomach - a normal and mechanical result of these gastric secretions and smooth muscle contractions as opposed to 'being sick'. Within 5 to 15 minutes of application you may feel the need to purge - we have buckets at the ready!

As kambo sessions usually involve a purge, it is performed only on an empty stomach (7 hours fasting). 1L water is drunk immediately prior, which provides a smooth vehicle for your body to purge with. While the thought of vomiting is unpleasant, it is actually a normal part of the process, and doing so may help waste toxins from your liver, cells and sometimes emotional junk to be expelled - said to be more efficient than through your intestines where much of it can be reabsorbed. You usually feel much better after this, and may start feeling blissful afterglow as a result. At this point, you are welcome to rest. The kambo is removed and your points are dabbed with 'dragons blood', an amazing sap used in the jungle for centuries primarily as a barrier for cuts, scratches, stings, ulcers, and more. Research has shown it to be analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and to greatly speed wound healing.

The experience itself is usually over within 30 minutes, however the total time for a ceremony can last between 1 to 2 hours. Everything is provided, including a delicious smoothie and herbal tea to replenish you. While you are able to drive and return to normal activities afterwards, it is recommended that you take it easy. The days afterwards are when people generally begin to feel the real benefits of the experience, by supporting the body's existing normal processes which in turn support downstream effects, often feeling clean, clear, rejuvenated and energised. For some, the aftereffects are more subtle.

🐸 So how do you ensure kambo sessions are safe? 🐸