In the previous blog post, we contemplated humanity's bigger picture lessons from the coronavirus, as humanity truly created this tragedy. We need to upgrade our collective relationship to nature and our collective holistic health—and fast. 

But what can we do, right now—as individuals?

...Other than the essential hand washing, cleaning, and social distancing?

We can care for our health—like the world depends on it.

We are connected. Our health is connected. Never before in our lifetime has this been so apparent. 

It's a critical time to for every member of society to cultivate a strong immune system to the best of our ability and practice social distancing so as to not completely overwhelm our hospitals and precious healthcare professionals. Governor Newsom stated that, without the current social distancing protocol, up to 56% of California’s population, roughly 25.5 million residents could be infected with the novel coronavirus over an eight-week period. According to current statistics, about 20% of infected people are predicted to need hospitalization, and that equals 20,000 more patients than our system can currently handle in California. I suspect that it's not a matter of IF we will get exposed to this virus, but only WHEN. So let's be as ready, strong, and healthy as possible. 

Preventative healthcare is also critical because hospitalization for an uninsured person can cost up to $35,000, according to a recent article in Time magazine. 

We are in this together.

Even if you think you have a strong immune system, please think of the others who don't. 

I consulted in depth with 5 amazing natural health experts (noted below) who have been closely following emerging information about the novel coronavirus and COVID-19.

Here, we offer a list of the natural supplements, teas, nutrition, and lifestyle practices that we ourselves are turning to for preventative healthcare. 

It is essential to consider our well-known natural and alternative options, as Western medicine does not have much to offer in the way of preventative medical support for this unique and swiftly adapting virus—other than hand washing, cleaning, and social distancing. Of course, Western medicine is essential once symptoms have become critical. 

We are not making any medical claims here. To reiterate, we are simply sharing what we are choosing to do.

The items and practices noted have been highlighted for their nourishing, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, protective, immunomodulatory, and/or general immune enhancing properties, including the upregulation of the endocannabinoid system. 

Yes, there is a lot here. It is truly holistic in that all the items touch on different angles of preventative care—or several. We are not saying that one must get every item, but rather move intuitively and select a personalized list based on your unique needs. Consider the areas of general nourishment, cellular strength, antivirals, anti-inflammatories, and general immune support. 

It is not possible to do a neat & tidy "prioritized" list, as we are all unique. Also, we don't want to risk people not knowing about potential alternatives—or useful items that might already be in their own pantry. Thus, it is a formidable list. 

Select research links are below. This article is not meant to be completely exhaustive or academically perfect. Explanations around mechanisms of action are not generally provided here for each item. We need to get this info out ASAP for critical timing reasons. ​More, select offerings here come through traditional knowledge and intuitive ways of knowing. 

This is NOT meant to be taken as medical advice or treatment protocols. If you feel sick, call your doctor or local hospital.

The public is being advised to CALL a medical professional to assess your need for care BEFORE going to the hospital. 

​Proceed with Grace. 

There is no true health or healing without love.

In my understanding from 30 years of ceremony, lifelong plant medicine studies, and immersive ongoing healer's training in the Bwiti tradition, I offer this... 

Just as important as taking the medicinal items and practices on this list is HOW we receive them: honor the spirit & intelligence in every medicine, ask for very specific help, listen closely for subtle guidance, and remain respectful to nature by taking only what we need. 

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CAUTION:

With all forms of medicine, especially when it comes to natural options, the ideal protocol can be as unique as the individual. People can respond very differently to these items, especially in the case of older people, those with autoimmune diseases, diabetes, other medical conditions, pregnant women, nursing mothers, or those taking pharmaceutical medications. ​This list takes into account the potential "cytokine storm" resulting from a hyper-reactive immune response that can occur with COVID-19, however each person will have different needs and there is still a lot to learn about this novel virus.   

Please be empowered and do your due diligence; research potential interactions with your current medications or medical conditions (always)! 

Consult with a naturopath, functional medicine doctor, or other trusted healthcare professional (who is educated about these options) when needed for special individual considerations.

To better understand the medical details of this unique virus from the perspective of a master herbalist, read this article and this addendum article by Stephen Harrod Buhner. 


A NOTE ON INTUITIVE USAGE:

More is not always better. This is a difficult concept for many Americans. Too much of any of these can aggravate or shock the system rather than support. Also, it is generally wise practice to utilizing items in 2-4 week cycles, rather than continuous daily use.

Likewise, faster is not always better. ​It is important not to make too many sudden changes at once, to avoid an overwhelming cleansing reaction. Go slow. It's better to start with just a few items to study your responses carefully.

Listen deeply to your own intuition. This is a lost art in today's passive consumer model. Pay attention to your body's reactions.

Exercise, sunlight, nutrition, and gut health are also vital to good immunity. If you are eating fast food / junk food, candy, soda, smoking, and completely sedentary, then these suggestions won't be as helpful. Nourish yourself with love.
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SACRED & SUSTAINABLE COMMERCE:

​Purchase links are provided for those who cannot leave their homes or who are in high risk categories—and also to highlight brands we trust. Many artisan items are also available through reviewed independent sellers on Etsy.com. Amazon and Whole Foods are using this opportunity to demand that distributors give them privileges of stocking items first. We don't want Amazon or Whole Foods to put our favorite local stores out of business—nor do we want these huge corporations to have noxious amounts of political power. Please try to purchase these items via your local health food stores, independent healthcare practitioners, or reputable sellers on Etsy first to ensure a healthy and diverse economy. 

If items are temporarily out of stock, just keep checking back, check with local stores, and consult with local natural health professionals for additional resources. Many items can be ordered in advance with a short wait time.

​Last, these statements have not all been evaluated by the FDA. To add to that: It's hard to find corporations willing to spend millions for clinical trials on natural substances that can't be patented.

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Cordyceps extract powder  + Chaga extract powder
Blend 1 teaspoon each in teas, coffee, or plain warm water. Add nut milk and local honey or your preferred low glycemic natural sweetener to taste, if desired.
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Ginger powder + turmeric powder = Ayurvedic "Golden Milk"
Blend 1 teaspoon each in warm water. Add nut milk and local honey or your preferred low glycemic natural sweetener to taste, if desired. Add nut milk, cinnamon, clove, & black pepper if possible; these all enhance the medicinal properties.

Rose hips + Hibiscus 
1/8 - 1/4 cup, steep at least 20 minutes—or even better, make a stronger herbal infusion by steeping overnight—in a french press. These are powerful natural sources of vitamin c.

Cat's claw + Pau d'Arco (inner bark for both)
1/8 - 1/4 cup, steep at least 20 minutes—or even better, make a stronger herbal infusion by steeping overnight—in a french press. 
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​*Choose all organic when possible.

Wash hands often with natural, non-irritating soap that features real essential oils such as those made by Dr. Bronners or DoTerra. 

Warm water with a pinch of sea salt & lemon first thing every morning.

Stay hydrated—and add a dropper full liquid minerals to your water; this makes it taste delicious like spring water. This also help thin out mucous. 

Cold pressed raw olive oil drizzled on your food

GARLIC - fresh or lightly heated in good oil

GINGER

Fresh fruits - with high in Vitamin C like oranges, kiwis, kumquats

Fresh veggies - especially dark greens

Fermented foods like kimchee, sour kraut, miso for probiotics

Organic whole foods as much as possible. Ayurvedic kitchari or congee stews are highly nutritious, easily digestible (for most), satisfying, and dirt cheap to make. 
 
Oregano & thyme in soups / salads

Cinnamon, Clove,  & Black Pepper

For friends with a sweet tooth: Look for or create desserts without white sugar, gluten, milk products, artificial ingredients, or corn syrup. We love creations by Bhu Keto, Evolved, & Hu Kitchen. 

***Avoid dairy, sugar, excess meat and eggs, fast food / junk food, highly processed foods, gluten (for most people), and GMOs.
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Wash hands often and especially after being outside with natural, non-irritating soap containing real, antiseptic essential oils such as those made by Dr. Bronners or DoTerra. 

Shower after being outside.

Don't touch your face or eyes—or wash hands thoroughly first.

Sacred cleaning! Let’s stay clean and hygienic, but more Clorox is not what our earth (or body) needs. Make easy, cheap, aromatherapeutic, and more environmentally friendly household cleaning spray with 60-70%+ rubbing alcohol, water, & essential oils of your choice.

Neti Pot nasal wash once daily or after being outside. Viral particles can enter through the nose. Add tiny pinch of sea salt. This practice helps to clear nasal passages of viral particles. Learn how to do this easy, simple practice on YouTube. 

Gargle with 3-4 drops On Guard or Zendocrine essential oil blends or other blends designated for internal use for 20 seconds twice a day or after being outside. Viral particles can enter through the mouth and throat. If essential oils are not available, use a 1/2 teaspoon salt or 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar. 

Abhyanga Ayurvedic self massage with my favorite Youthing Strategies Ayurvedic oils. These oils are antibacterial for common skin pathogens, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Add organic essential oils to your preferred intensity such as geranium, frankincense, and sandalwood for added antibacterial and medicinal effects.

Kambo medicine is a powerfully cleansing ancient Amazonian medicine with antiviral properties among many other health benefits, according to indigenous perspectives and emerging studies. Master kambo practitioner Steve Alexander Dumain is available for healing sessions in the Bay Area—and he can refer people to good practitioners in other areas. Advanced kambo practitioner Maria Teresa Chavez is available for healing sessions in the LA area. Both practitioners are following special distancing and sanitary safety protocol especially for coronavirus

Rape' (pronounced "happhay") is an ancient, traditional Amazonian tobacco snuff medicine with antiseptic and antiviral properties. Viral particles can enter through the nose and nasal passages. This sacred medicine should be used sparingly and with respect. Contact Kambo practitioner Steve Alexander Dumain for more information, instructions, and related application tools.

Essential oil diffusers (non-heating) using real, organic, food grade essential oils such as DoTerra's Purify blend, Breath blend, melaleuca, or lavender may help clear viral particles and mold spores.

CHILLAX. EXERCISE. GET FRESH AIR. MAKE ART. Stress can lower immunity!

Marin Yoga teacher Jill Townsend is offering by-donation online pilates & yoga classes DAILY. It's great to feel the communal energy via the group platform in while practicing social distancing: linktr.ee/Jilltownsendyoga

Take care to get good sleep. Put that phone and computer down a couple hours before bed. Blue light disrupts melatonin production. 

In the case of heavy mucous, we can turn to traditional practices to help break up phlegm and get the lungs clear in the case of pneumonia. This article discusses processes like making chest packs and steaming, and gives a great overview of COVID-19 and how to work with the virus in a healthy way.

And yes, sensuality is medicine. Sustainable and healthy forms of sensual pleasure can swiftly drop stress hormones and seriously boost immunity. Take advantage of downtime to consult with embodiment and pleasure coaches such as Tara Somers, Mirima Elyse, and Jena La Flamme.  
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​BE WELL, beloveds. One for all and all for one. I hope this brings you some support. Please share this community offering as inspired. Sharing buttons are below the references.

All my LOVE,
E. Bast

REFERENCES

Pitchford, P. (2002). Healing with whole foods: Asian traditions and modern nutrition. 3rd ed., rev., updated, and expanded. Berkeley, Calif.: North Atlantic Books.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/chlorella
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6836285/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3819475/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24203707
https://nutriphys.com/en/what-is-chlorella-growth-factor-cgf/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17895634
https://www.sunchlorellausa.com/blog/healthy-tips-4/post/3-benefits-of-chlorella-growth-factor-46
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136577/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC547772/
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2015/825203/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3837755/
http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productid=107&pid=33&gid=000268
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1112084/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5366763/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1112084/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5330095/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/antiviral-herbs
https://drsircus.com/medical-marijuana/diminishing-suffering-colds-flu-medical-marijuana/
https://psychedelictimes.com/understanding-dermaseptin-kambos-antiviral-peptide-that-may-treat-herpes/
https://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/44/5/1991.full.pdf
https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/guide/sex-and-health#1
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/9780470015902.a0024658

Here we are. Holy f**k. Our toxic global consumer-driven house of cards is all so fragile (which I always suspected). 

In many parts of the world, including mine, we are now in a collective quarantine, mostly prisoners in our own homes, and avoiding each other like the plague. I am wondering about the inner experience of all the beautiful beings I love, and all I can really do to support is write and pray. There is much talk of hand washing and social distancing, which are clearly important now, but little talk about the underlying conditions that fed into the coronavirus.

I am left asking...


What is the root cause of all this?

And what is the root cause of the root cause?

And what is the answer to this mess?


As Seasoned global health expert and author Alanna Shaikh explains in her powerful TEDx talk, humans are encroaching on the earth's last wild spaces through rapacious development.  We are burning the Amazon rainforest to make room for beef ranching. The ever-expanding human presence into natural habitats, including the hunting and eating of wildlife, exposes people, domesticated animals, and livestock to all the bacteria and viruses that wildlife carries. Three-quarters of new diseases in humans come from animals. And climate change continues to damage our ecosystem, literally creating the "perfect storm" in which epidemics can thrive. 

Live wildlife and animal markets with crowded, inhumane, and unsanitary conditions, like the one in Wuhan, China where the COVID-19 originated, create the ideal breeding ground for powerful zoonotic diseases to easily spread among multiple species, including humans. Drastic changes are direly needed at such markets, and it will require a deep rooted cultural shift. According to some traditional Chinese perspectives, eating the flesh of certain kinds of wildlife is believed to bestow the animals' strength and power. In addition, eating exotic and even endangered animals is considered to be a status symbol, especially among the elite. 

It must be said that the painful and unhealthy practices such as those in Wuhan's live animal market are not exclusive to China. There are similar scenes in places all over the world. Even here in the US, our own factory farms are just as cruel and unhealthy; they are an ideal set up for a swift spread of pathogens through a large food supply.

Humans must also stop hunting animals to extinction; this brings about critical imbalances in the ecology. But people are invested. The exotic animal industry in China is worth more than $73 billion and employs more than one million people. Wildlife trafficking is one of the four most profitable illegal industries in the world. Chinese demand supports the trade, as rare animal parts like rhinoceros horn, tiger bone, and pangolin scales are used in traditional Chinese medicine.

On top of all this, the earth is densely populated by humans. Our highly mobile species takes about 50 million airlines flights per year. And much of the "modern world" already has low immunity due in part to poor gut health, insufficient nutrition, obesity, excess sugar intake, parasites, candida and other fungal diseases, low or no natural movement exercise, etc. So, that's tons of people with poor health, all mingling rapidly.

We have governments ruled by opportunistic corporations that will reap insane amounts of private profit by taking advantage of this pandemic. This kind of self-centered thinking is what got us into the mess in the first place, and it won't be how we get out of it. 

Our collective attitude towards nature is one of domination and exploitation. We currently have a vile strain of capitalism that essentially devours its own food sources through unsustainable, soil-depleting agriculture—and poisons its own rivers to make a buck by any means necessary. But Gaia is intelligent beyond what humans can perceive with our evolutionarily young minds. You think the earth can't sense it when humans clear cut a forest or create other imbalances?  We are just beginning to scratch the surface when it comes to understanding plant intelligence and the potential of mycelial networks to transmit sophisticated information through the ecosystem. 

This is all an effective recipe for global disaster. COVID-19 should be no surprise. 

The root cause seems to be that humans are abusing nature in a myriad of ways. 


So what do we do now?


Many experts say that social distancing is important, as we learned from the 1918 Influenza epidemic. Social distancing can slow down public infection in order to avoid overwhelming our medical system. The tricky part is getting so many people to cooperate in this critical phase. As we are social creatures, healthy social connection actually supports immune function. Even in the midst of mass quarantine and social distancing, at least we can still utilize phones, apps, and computers to nurture our collective bonds. 

And, yes, wash your hands—for at least 20 seconds—often. Keep surfaces clean. And use REAL hand sanitizers with 60%+ alcohol and natural essential oils, like the one made by Dr. Bronner's. Don't bother with that other largely ineffective chemical crap.

Yet, hand washing, hand sanitizers, and social distancing are not addressing the root causes of COVID-19. These practices are just bandaids—and the hand washing is certainly a good clean habit.

We can care for our health and immune system. I've been collaborating with medical professionals and master herbalists for ideas. Keep an eye out for my next newsletter that will detail the top supplements & natural supports for immunity that I want my own family to be taking now. 

In the United States, we are now being asked to cover our faces, but also to save the N95 masks for medical professionals as we are now in a critical shortage of protective medical gear. Though a generic face mask won't entirely protect us from getting the virus, it can help to reduce risks of transmitting infection or breathing in particles. 

What can truly help in the longterm: Build good health care systems in all countries, not just in financially wealthy ones, says Shaikh. Here, our illusory sense of separation truly hurts the collective, as pandemics know no borders. More, we need a model of collective health care that driven by social profit instead of private profit. Hopefully by now, we all know some of the devastating effects of big pharma such as the opioid epidemic, the horrific corruption with regards to psychiatric medications, and rampant overprescribing of antibiotics.

Cultivate greater national and regional self-sufficiency. China is now the world's leading manufacturer, and that includes many of the world's life saving medications. More local everything.

Let's start by respecting nature—and respecting ourselves as a part of nature. 

We must stop supporting the torturous, excessive, and virulent live animal markets and factory farming practices. If one must eat animals, choose to support humane, healthy, regenerative farms—or hunt in a balanced and ecologically sensitive way. Know that exploitation of natural resources, animals, and people comes at a high price, sooner or later, for ourselves or for our future generations. Use only what we need. Preserve our wild spaces. Honor the ecosystem. Create sustainable human culture and economic systems that not only harmonize with nature, but also give back to nature (humans are that clever!). Procreate responsibly & reasonably. Remember that what hurts one, hurts all. Value social profit above private profit. 

And HOW do you get a bunch of self-centered humans to want to do all that? 


Heal the root cause of the root cause.


It is clear that we must heal the root pathologies that cause humans to abuse nature in the first place: greed, addiction to power over others, and the illusory sense of separation.

And HOW do we heal all THAT?

Well, one way I know of is experiencing a formidable dose of high quality earth-based psychedelic medicine—with a good facilitator, safe set & setting, and the support of a healthy community--where it is not illegal, of course, as much of the world is still lingering in the dark ages of the drug war. Scientific studies--and indigenous research since time immemorial—show that this work has the potential to increase empathy, awaken a sense of connectedness to the earth and ecosystem, and help foster the kind of mental health that can weather the circumstantial storms of life.

Will psychedelics help save the world? Well, humans just might, if entering the psychedelic experience with true participation & good integration, because sacred medicine work is 1% what happens in ceremony and 99% what we do with it. 

Certainly, psychedelics are not the right option for everyone, for many reasons. And there are "many ways up the mountain" to glimpse unity consciousness, including 30 years of meditation. But with climate crisis and this pandemic, we don't have a lot of time. When more people have these sacred experiences, including people who have the worldly power and privilege to make real change, there are profound ripple effects for the collective. 


Without any judgment or oversimplified hyper-spiritualized narratives, let's just look objectively at some of the interesting effects of the virus:

• Global warming slows down for a bit. Pollution clears.  From February 3 to March 1, CO2 emissions were down by at least 25% because of the measures to contain the coronavirus.

• Store shelves are ransacked. Many items are out of stock. Every item we have is precious. Just when we were taking everything for granted, we finally are mindful of our consumption. 

• Many of us suddenly have more time and space for introspection.

• We are staying at home with those closest to us. Our time and contact is more precious than ever.

• We are considering what matters most in life. For me, it is health, clean water, clean air, good food, making art and beauty, legacy, family, community, meaningful ceremonies, the opportunities to experience sacred medicine, and LOVE. 

• All the problems that seemed so big a couple weeks ago now seem far less important. 

• For those we cannot hug and/or see in person, we have the opportunity to connect on the more subtle energetic levels.

• The maniacal pace of "business as usual" shuts down for most of us (except for essential businesses, healthcare workers, Amazon.com, and the private companies who will benefit from billions in federal funds designated to fight the coronavirus!). We have a full stop on the collective obsession with profit-driven production and egoic achievement. 

• We realize the importance of relative self-sufficiency in times of chaos: growing our own food and medicine; access to rural space away from big cities; and alternative sources of heat, energy, water.

• And I'm finally getting all that "spring cleaning" done, clearing space in my house—and my mind, literally letting go of what no longer serves. 


I'd love to conclude with an objective and astute observation from the Bwiti tradition of Central West Africa:

"When we abuse nature, the price is misery." 

And... we are nature, too. 

That is not about punishment or dogma. That is simply a natural consequence. And we can receive it as both a sacred and practical teaching about ecological balance if we choose.

Certainly, I don't wish for any human to have this terrible virus. My heart and prayers goes out to all who are suffering.

May we enter of new era of greater respect for nature, ourselves, each other, and our exquisitely interconnected ecosystem. 

And it's high time for that regenerative community farm a little further away from the city. 

LOVE,
E. Bast
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1. It takes a village. We need to build new/old tribal structures in this part of the world to hold the preparation & integration of medicine ceremonies. We need healthy friends and knowledgeable helping professionals to hold us accountable for our visionary “homework,” support us on tough days, and connect with us at nourishing social gatherings.

2. Medicine work is not easy, nor is it a “magic pill.” It IS profound, fully alive, & connected to nature. It is about “meeting the medicine halfway” in the experience and through humble daily practice. Let us come as devotees and students rather than passive consumers. Medicine doesn’t make anybody perfect, but it can help us with our infinite growth and clear intentions. 

3. Ceremonially & sustainably harvested medicine from the hands of friends is a precious, priceless gift. According to my experience and traditional understanding, it carries a very special frequency. 

4. The indigenous communities that we know would like to be a part of the global conversation. They have much to offer from ancient ways of knowing. The world over, our indigenous communities are facing immense challenges now such as environmental damage, cultural erosion due to industrial expansion, and economic disparity. May we support as a global tribe.

Unfortunately, I cannot give you a simple answer to the question of micro-dosing these particular medicines.

Iboga and Ibogaine are generally the most medically tricky of all common entheogens. They can also be the most dangerous when someone doesn't know what they are doing.

In my 5+ years of experience, supporting many ceremonies and talking with many people, I know that individuals can have a very broad range of responses to iboga and ibogaine. The medicine can be unpredictable.

What might be a light microdose for one person can send someone  else into a full blown destabilizing psychedelic journey with physical tremors severe enough to cause falls, fainting, and dangerous cardiac arrhythmias.

I have seen big adults occasionally pass out cold from a small bit of root bark, being saved from a serious head injury only by the swift and strong grip of assistants supporting ceremony. The organic, total alkaloid form of the medicine can vary in potency and it is not dosed according to body weight, though people assume otherwise when they try to glean general dosage recommendations from online forums. Traditionally, dosing is done by careful observations of specific, subtle physical and mental changes, and it is an art that requires training and practice. 

I have seen some people nearly aspirate from intense purging, even on light doses of iboga. I have seen others, especially in drug detox situations, go into the confusional or delusional state and become highly irrational or destabilized enough to try and wander away—until they require medical intervention.

​Then there are the potentially fatal cardiac issues that can occur when someone has not been properly screened by a medical professional.

A myriad of medication contraindications exist, some of which prolong the QT interval in cardiac function; those would make a risky recipe when combined even with "micro-doses" of iboga and ibogaine.

I cannot imagine working with iboga or ibogaine for the first few times—alone—or with people who don't really know these medicines.


To work with iboga or ibogaine in a safe(r) way, even for "micro-doses," this will require getting an EKG/ECG, liver panel, other medical tests, skillful psychiatric screening, and THEN having those tests evaluated by a medical professional--and not just any medical professional--but one who is knowledgeable about this medicine.

Even with ALL the necessary screening tests, certain cardiac or other medical issues can still sometimes slip through undetected, and it is essential to have an ACLS certified medical professional present in initial treatments to pick up on any adverse reactions promptly—and save a life if it gets critical. 

"But the Africans don't have medical professionals present." In the industrialized West, we have many medical conditions and pharmaceutical drugs that they don't encounter in iboga territory (for the most part). There, people have often been raised with careful micro-doses as a way of life with knowledgeable elders, and would know of any bad reactions to the medicine. 


There are many variables with so-called "reputable sources." Online sellers can change quality or sources in an instant. I know scientists who've tested medicine purchased online to find that it is adulterated with different cardio toxic plants or even Fentanyl, a deadly-powerful opioid.

The only time a source is trustworthy is when you actually know and trust the person who harvested the medicine, hopefully sustainably and ceremonially. Do you know the name of the one who is taking these roots out of the ground and preparing it for your healing? I echo the Bwiti understanding that the medicine is sensitive to the intentions with which it is grown, harvested, prepared, and ingested.


The message I receive in Bwiti ceremony is that sacred medicine loves relationships. We need genuine tribe—not masked dealers on cyber street corners. We need healthy community to help hold and integrate this work in a good way.

​I have seen people who work with psychedelics in isolation start to cultivate extremist and paranoid views over time. Though trauma survivors often tend to isolate, there is a reason why these medicines have been held in communal structures since the beginning. 

Anyone determined to risk consuming an unknown online source should have the substance laboratory tested by a knowledgeable scientist or medical professional. Online sources also risk being from an elephant poacher, because elephant poachers have been associated with some iboga sales.


More, just as important as the material substance is the WAY in which we receive it. This view reflects a deeper philosophy that traditional medicine ways have held for eons.


This is very foreign to our current passive consumer model, in which we focus strictly on "taking the substance" without attending to a more holistic model of care in which the medicinal material is but one facet. I encourage people working with sacred medicines to become active participants and students.

Micro-dosing as we know it is a traditional way of studying the medicine, and I have come to have deep respect for the body of knowledge and navigation tools from the traditional Bwiti and Bobongo people who have studied this complex medicine for eons. Iboga is a unique and multi-faceted medicine. It is capable of many things. Iboga is rocket fuel, and it's good to know how to fly the ship, and, of course, know exactly where you are going. 

Even having "plenty of experience" with other medicines does not qualify someone to safely navigate iboga or ibogaine for one's self or others. Likewise, I have experienced strong ceremonial doses of ayahuasca, peyote, huachuma (San Pedro), different kinds of DMT, and sacred mushroom (all at select times, with plenty of integration between!). Yet, nothing could have prepared me for iboga. To me, it is the "brain surgeon" of medicines.


What my indigenous Bwiti relations, ibogaine medical experts, and my own soul tells me: I cannot support ibogaine micro-dose protocols for a person--until they have experienced this medicine under qualified supervision such as through a Bwiti ceremony or a reputable ibogaine clinic—so one can begin to understand their unique response, tolerance, and relationship to the medicine in a safe setting.


Sometimes people who are eager for healing will risk their life and jump in without enough information. This is unfortunate.


I'm all for DIY everything whenever possible, but this is a different situation.


Sure, some people may have had relatively positive experiences with micro-dosing from dark web material on their own. They are LUCKY. That's a roulette wheel. I hear about iboga and ibogaine deaths regularly when people are unwittingly creating risky situations or when they don't really know their source. Even healthy people have had fatalities. And these tragedies are preventable. 

There are much safer medicines to micro-dose with--where it is legal, of course. 

Traditional iboga retreats and ibogaine treatments with medical screening and support are indeed expensive. The accommodations, specialized medical screening & support, 24/7 care, retreat chefs, patient services, and good sourcing are all very expensive. Often dedicated providers are not profiting much or at all, even when a retreat costs thousands. So yes, it's expensive, but your life is worth it. A good experience is worth saving or fundraising for.

If someone is urgently in need of drug detox, there are actually several other natural ways one can safely and gently wean down with qualified support until iboga or ibogaine becomes accessible. I'll be writing a post on natural detox options soon. Stay tuned. 

Yes, there is another BIG discussion to be had here about privilege and access to the medicine, and I look forward to exploring those topics more. I want to see a future where all these medicines are sustainably cultivated and equally accessible to all.

​I do not mean to be negative here... I would love to support people in having a safe and beneficial experience with medicine! All this may sound scary, and hopefully it is scary enough from preventing anyone from making a dangerous decision that could not only risk their life but also further compromise the reputation of this sacred medicine, the safety of good providers, and the safe access for others in need. We are in a delicate global learning curve here, and it is a delicate time to create lasting social change.

When in qualified hands, this medicine can be healthy, miraculous, and life-changing. No one can guarantee 100% safety, as there are always risks--to everything, but the risks can be profoundly mitigated.
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What I CAN advise is this...

Attend to a sacred altar. Call in the Spirit of the medicine. Ask for help. Do your due diligence. Build relationships with medicine community & qualified providers. Be of service. Be willing to offer of your Self as much as you ask. Pray for guidance. 

​And then... listen, watch, and wait for that guidance. 

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I was super excited to interview Caitlin Thompson, founder of EntheoZen supplements. This powerhouse genius lady is one of my favorite neuroscience and microbiome geeks! She makes FANTASTIC probiotic, mood support, & "party recovery" supplements.  

​I personally tested her products and found them to be 110% AMAZING, otherwise I wouldn't be sharing this! It's difficult to do a review for a probiotic without getting... well... um... graphic. However, I will keep it simple and say that with Caitlin's ZenBiotic, I could feel my whole digestive system working like never before. I felt energized, "light," and like I shed layers of old karma whenever I went to the bathroom. ;)

Her mood support supplement, TransZen, is a blend of B-vitamins, superfoods, and botanicals that help support a calm, focused, nourished mind. This is a wonderful natural nootropic   (cognitive performance supplement) as well. Put down that Adderall already, kids! Because... The frequency with which we are "productive" is just as important as the product itself. And Caitlin helps us to create a frequency of wisdom, balance, and joy.

I have been blown away by Caitlin's presentations at various psychedelic medicine conferences and events... Her personal story of healing from anxiety and depression is so resonant for many of us these days. Catch her events if you can!

Caitlin is also a seasoned Kambo medicine practitioner. Learn about that beautiful natural medicine from the Amazon in our next segment!
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In this interview, you will learn:

- Caitlin's personal healing journey that inspired her to make (great) supplements for mood & gut health, even in a saturated supplement market.

- The ancient yet cutting-edge biotechnology that make her ZenBiotic probiotics and TransZen mood support supplements so awesome!

- Some of the dubious practices to WATCH OUT for that some probiotic companies do in order to make cheaper products. Don't be fooled! They can lead to the unhealthy overgrowth of some strains of bacteria.

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Incredible research has been emerging lately demonstrating the therapeutic effects of psychedelic medicines and microdosing, yet these are powerful forces that come with risks.

One person posted online: I am so concerned about people misusing and abusing these medicines!
 
I understood her concern, and yet, criminalizing a substance NEVER stops people from misusing and abusing anything.

HOWEVER, decriminalizing a substance creates the opposite; it brings the light of more education, creates space for the study of harm reduction strategies, lifts stigma, and cultivates authentic communities to hold the medicines in a good way, as tribes have done since the dawn of time. Certainly there may be a bit of an adjustment period, but it is a good overall trajectory. 

For example, we will have more local support & education groups like the Psychedelic Society of San Francisco and virtual programs like the cutting edge School of SOMA that is currently in development, a platform for online education teaching people how to grow their own sacred mushrooms, safely navigate the experience, and integrate the experience to benefit daily life and relationships. Visit the School of SOMA WEBSITE & subscribe to their email list to be the first to know about their launch!
 
Portugal gives us a longterm view of what happens with drug decriminalization, and it is certainly NOT the zombie apocalypse...

Since Portugal enacted drug decriminalization in 2001, the number of people voluntarily entering treatment has increased significantly, overdose deaths and HIV infections among people who use drugs have plummeted, incarceration for drug-related offenses has decreased, and rates of problematic and adolescent drug use has fallen.

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ABOUT ANA HOLUB & CLEAR PATH TO PEACE
 
Ana Holub, MA, teaches forgiveness and recovery from addiction as a counselor, author, poet and educator. She holds a BA in Peace Studies and an MA in Dispute Resolution from Pepperdine University School of Law. As an expert in the field of forgiveness and reconciliation, Ana was honored as a Champion of Forgiveness by the Worldwide Forgiveness Alliance (2018). She is a frequent speaker on the essential role of forgiveness in various settings, including the use of entheogens for inner healing and deep spiritual liberation. 
 
Ana works with individuals, couples, at-risk families, hospice patients, non-profits, businesses, and schools. Her mission includes work with inmates in prison (San Quentin) and with juvenile offenders. She has provided restorative justice, poetry, and peace education to incarcerated people since 2002. 
 
Ana teaches workshops internationally on forgiveness, emotional healing and recovery from addictions. Her books include Forgive and Be Free and The Edges Are Friendly. She has also created four online courses, including Forgive and Be Free of Your Addictions. Find out more at www.anaholub.com.
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LEARN MORE AT
ANAHOLUB.COM

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CHECK OUT THE COURSE:
FORGIVE & BE FREE OF YOUR ADDICTIONS

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