IBOGA AND THE WEST

This workshop will interactively explore the fascinating journey of iboga, the ancient African plant medicine that is the sacrament of the Bwiti people, as it makes its way into the Western world. We'll begin by delving into the origins of Bwiti — one of the world's first spiritual traditions, which is practiced by the earliest plant medicine users — who first recognized Iobga's profound healing potential thousands of years ago.

We'll differentiate between iboga root bark, and ibogaine (its isolated alkaloid), emphasizing the importance of understanding its spiritual significance and traditional use and how these can contrast in many crucial contextual ways with modern western approaches. Tracing iboga's path from its African roots to the West, we'll draw out some of the complexities of cultural exchange, drawing parallels with the historical spread of Buddhism, and raising questions about cultural appropriation versus the respectful sharing of knowledge. While acknowledging iboga's potential to benefit people globally, we'll stress the importance of preserving the essence of Bwiti traditions.

Finally, we'll discuss the crucial aspects of sustainability and reciprocity in working with iboga, ensuring its longevity and honoring the Bwiti communities who have been its stewards for centuries. We'll also touch on the dangers of colonial interpretations and language surrounding these sacred traditions — before opening the floor to a group discussion focused on fostering a deeper understanding of iboga's role in both traditional and contemporary healing contexts.