Session Process
Learn how to prepare, what happens during a session, and the approach that shapes your Kambo experience, so you feel ready and informed.
Healing with Intention, Not Intensity
Kambo isn’t about pushing limits—more medicine and more purging don’t necessarily lead to deeper healing. Often, less is more.
The key is finding the right balance, using just enough medicine to support your body’s natural release. Vomiting is not required for a successful session; gentle, slower-paced sessions can be just as effective.
Each experience is unique—some may cry, shake, or even feel euphoria. Trust that your body knows what it needs. We always begin with a microdose, allowing your body to adjust before layering up as needed, based on how you’re feeling.
This guide walks you through what to expect, from preparation to recovery. Sessions proceed only once all preparation requirements are met. For details, see the Preparation Guidelines below.
Preparation Guidelines
Follow these preparation requirements to ensure your safety and get the most out of your Kambo experience. Proper preparation allows the medicine to work effectively.
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Refrain from water fasts, colonics, or enemas for three days before and after the session.
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We'll go over your medications during our intake call to ensure your safety and eligibility for Kambo. If anything is contraindicated, we’ll discuss whether pausing them feels right for you or if you'd prefer to check in with your doctor for guidance.
If possible, try to skip daily medications before your session and take them afterward if needed.
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Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs for at least 72 hours before and after your session. This ensures that no other substances interfere with Kambo’s effects.
Substances to Avoid:
Stimulants: Cocaine, methamphetamines, MDMA.
Depressants: Opiates, heroin.
Psychedelics: LSD, psilocybin.
Cannabis: THC and CBD products.
Alcohol.
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Drink your normal amount of water the day before your session. Avoid excessive consumption, as overhydration can be harmful.
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Avoid sweat lodges, saunas, and hot tubs the day before and after your session to prevent dehydration or hyponatremia.
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Fast for 8–12 hours before your session to let Kambo work its magic. Purging on an empty stomach is far more comfortable.
No food, coffee, caffeinated tea, or juice. Herbal tea is allowed.
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Kambo can increase menstrual flow due to its effects on circulation and vasodilation.
Recommendations:
Consider waiting until after your cycle to avoid intensifying symptoms.
Some women find Kambo alleviates menstrual symptoms, but the experience can feel more intense during this time.
Kambo Session Guide
1. Check-In
Before your session, take a moment to reflect on why you are working with Kambo. Setting a clear intention anchors you, keeping you grounded and making the process smoother.
We’ll discuss your goals, any questions, and supportive tools to help you feel at ease. Sessions typically last 2 hours, including check-in, discussion, and recovery. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and a short-sleeve shirt.
2. Hydration
To start the session, you'll drink 1.5–2 liters (0.4–0.5 gallons) of water to support the purging process. It might feel uncomfortable, but trust me—purging without water is much tougher!
Be sure to stick to your normal water intake beforehand, as overhydration can be risky.
3. Application
As you drink water, I’ll prepare the medicine and gently burn small “gates” on your skin with an incense stick. This quick process feels like a brief pinch. Once applied, the Kambo enters your lymphatic system and begins its work.
The burn points are shallow and temporary, healing naturally over time. Small marks typically fade within a few weeks to months, depending on your skin type.
4. The Purge
During a session, you may experience various physical responses as your body releases. The most intense reactions will last 10-20 minutes. Natural responses include:
Vomiting: Clears out physical and mental toxins.
Bathroom use: Cleanses the lower intestines.
Shaking: Releases tension held in the nervous system.
Tetany ('Lobster Hands'): A sign of letting go of stored stress.
Crying or emotional release: Brings buried emotions to the surface.
5. Supportive Tools
Sometimes, tools may be used to assist the purging process. These include:
Sage: Burned to clear energetic blockages and promote relaxation.
Sacred tobacco (Hapé or Mapacho): Grounds the body and mind while enhancing focus.
Agua de Florida: A South American fragrance that refreshes the senses, clears stagnant energy, and provides grounding.
These tools are always optional. Their use is guided by your preferences, comfort level, and the flow of the session.
6. Recovery
After purging, you’ll rest and replenish with herbal tea, electrolytes, or fresh fruit. Energy typically returns within 30–60 minutes as your body settles. In the days that follow, you may experience:
Elevated mood and increased energy
Reduced stress and improved focus
Deeper clarity and emotional release
Heightened awareness and resilience to stress and fatigue
Detoxing may continue for hours or days—listen to your body and allow space for rest as needed.
Aftercare
Diet
Avoid acidic, dense foods, sugar, and processed foods for 1-3 days.
Substances
Avoid cannabis, alcohol and other substances for at least 24 hours.
Burn Points
Avoid picking scabs; healing time varies by skin type.