Welcome to the FAQ section. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
General Questions
Does Kambo hurt?
Not in the way you might expect. The burning of the skin is brief and often described as feeling like a quick scratch. The points are small (4–5mm), and only the top layers of skin are removed — similar to the removal of skin when a blister is rubbed off. There is no blood involved.
Will I have scars from the burns?
Yes — the points usually leave small, circular marks that fade over time. Many people feel proud of their Kambo marks, and we’ll always discuss placement with you in advance to ensure comfort.
Can anyone take Kambo?
No. Kambo is not suitable for everyone. Contraindications include:
- Serious heart problems
- Medication for low blood pressure
- Stroke or brain haemorrhage history
- Aneurysms or blood clots
- Severe epilepsy
- Serious mental health issues (excluding depression, PTSD, and anxiety)
- Organ transplant recipients on immune-suppressants
- Addison’s Disease
- Chemotherapy/radiotherapy (or within 4 weeks afterward)
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding a child under 12 months
- Under 18 years of age
- Bufo (5-MeO-DMT) use within the last 28 days
This list isn’t exhaustive — always disclose your full medical history and medications.
Do I have to purge (vomit)?
In most cases, yes — though how the release shows up can vary. Many people experience vomiting, others may release through bowel movements, tears, or a deep emotional shift. This is part of Kambo’s natural cleansing process. Each person’s journey is unique, and whatever needs to move will do so in its own way.
Will I hallucinate?
No. Kambo is not psychoactive. However, many people report increased mental clarity and moments of deep personal insight.
How often should I take Kambo?
This depends on your individual path. Traditionally, no more than 12 treatments a year is recommended.
Can I take Kambo during menstruation?
Yes, but note it may cause an increase in flow for up to 36 hours due to its vasodilating effects.
Is aftercare offered?
While we do not offer a formal aftercare programme, we are available for check-ins and discussion post-treatment. We do not provide medical or psychological advice.
Ceremony & Treatment Experience
What happens during a Kambo ceremony?
Each session follows a thoughtful flow:
- Arrival and settling in
- Introduction to Kambo and setting intentions
- Application of the medicine (small burns are made on the skin and Kambo is applied)
- Time for rest and recovery (during which purging and other effects occur)
- Nourishing food and optional group sharing
What does the treatment feel like?
Kambo enters the lymphatic system quickly. Most people feel a warm flush through their face and body, followed by increased heart rate. Some feel dizzy or foggy; others feel pressure, pulsing or tightness where Kambo targets issues. Everyone reacts differently — this is part of the process.
Is it safe?
Yes — when administered by a trained practitioner. Kambo must never be ingested or introduced into the bloodstream directly. The only safe method is topical application through small burns.
How long does a session last?
Typically 4–6 hours. However, this varies depending on the group size, number of treatments, and individual needs.
What happens after the treatment?
The effects are usually over within 30–40 minutes. Afterward, you’ll rest, rehydrate, and eat. You may feel tired initially, but most people feel clearer and more energised after a good night’s sleep.
How long do the marks last?
The burn marks fade with time. Depending on skin type, some scarring may remain. After treatment, the points are dressed with Peruvian tree sap to help healing and prevent infection. Points can be reused after roughly three months.
Training FAQs
What are the prerequisites to train as a Kambo practitioner?
To enrol in the IAKP Practitioner Training with Andrew, you must:
- Have received Kambo at least six times
- Have assisted at one Kambo ceremony (or arrange to do so before training)
- Be physically fit and emotionally stable
- Approach the work with a mindset of service, humility, and gratitude
What’s covered in the training course?
The IAKP training is comprehensive and experiential. Topics include:
- Kambo history and science
- Circle structure and ceremony etiquette
- Rapé, Sananga, Bechette
- Burn techniques and point setting
- Traditional treatments, self-treatments, layering
- Intensive protocols and long-term treatment
- Kambo with meridians, chakras, marma points
- Contraindications and first aid
- Auricular Kambo
- Ceremony tools: rattles, feathers, smoke
- Boundaries, song, and space-holding
- Code of Practice and practitioner responsibilities
Where does the training take place?
Training options include:
- Private 1:1 or small group trainings at Andrew’s home in the UK
- Residential and international group trainings (IAKP-accredited)
Is the training residential?
Yes. You can choose:
- Residential format: 11–14 day immersive block
- Modular format: Split into shorter stages for flexibility
For more information on practitioner training, visit the IAKP Training Page or email: training@kambokambo.com