Understanding Ibogaine Therapy:A Promising Treatment for PTSD in Veterans

PTSD veterans

Written by: Garyth Moxey

Garyth Moxey is a native of Canada and a highly influential figure in the field of entheogen provision and harm reduction advocacy, based in Vancouver, British Columbia. As a trained psychedelic therapist, Garyth specializes in the application of Ibogaine for addiction detoxification, with a particular focus on opiate addiction. He also offers specialized sessions utilizing 5-MeO-DMT and Psilocybin for psychospiritual exploration.

PTSD is a debilitating condition that affects countless individuals, particularly veterans who have experienced the traumas of war. Traditional treatments, including therapy and medication, have shown varying degrees of success. However, recent interest has turned toward alternative therapies, particularly Ibogaine—a natural psychoactive substance derived from the root of the African plant Tabernanthe iboga. This blog explores why Ibogaine therapy is gaining traction as a potential treatment for PTSD among veterans.

The nature of PTSD can manifest through a variety of symptoms, including flashbacks, severe anxiety, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event. For veterans, the inability to escape the memories of combat can lead to isolation, depression and substance abuse. Traditional treatments often focus on symptom management rather than addressing the root causes of trauma, leaving many veterans seeking alternative solutions.

What is Ibogaine? Ibogaine is known for its ability to induce profound psychological experiences, often described as a journey into one’s subconscious. This substance interacts with various neurotransmitter systems in the brain, particularly the serotonin and dopamine receptors. Its use has been primarily associated with treating addiction, but its potential for addressing PTSD is becoming increasingly recognized.

 The Mechanism Behind Ibogaine Therapy 

  1. Neuroplasticity and healing: one of the most significant advantages of Ibogaine is its ability to promote neuroplasticity—the brain’s capacity to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This can help veterans reprocess traumatic memories and alter their emotional responses, facilitating a path to healing.
  1. Emotional Release: The intense psychological experience induced by Ibogaine often allows individuals to confront and process deep-seated emotions related to their trauma. This cathartic release can lead to a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms.
  1. Altered State of Consciousness: The altered state of consciousness experienced during an Ibogaine session can provide a different perspective on traumatic memories. Veterans may find themselves able to view their experiences from a new angle, leading to greater understanding and acceptance.
  1. Reduction in Anxiety and Depression: Many veterans report a reduction in anxiety and depressive symptoms following Ibogaine therapy. This could be attributed to the substance’s effect on neurotransmitter systems, promoting a more balanced emotional state. Evidence from clinical studies research on Ibogaine is still in its early stages, preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest promising outcomes. Many veterans who have undergone Ibogaine therapy report significant improvements in their PTSD symptoms, including reduced flashbacks and anxiety levels.

Some studies indicate that these effects can last for months after a single treatment session. The importance of supportive care is crucial and Ibogaine therapy should not be viewed as a standalone treatment. Successful outcomes often depend on the integration of therapy and support following the Ibogaine experience. Veterans benefit from ongoing counseling, peer support groups, and holistic therapies to reinforce the progress made during the Ibogaine session.

Ibogaine therapy presents a potential breakthrough for veterans struggling with PTSD, offering a new avenue for healing that addresses the complexities of trauma. As the conversation around mental health evolves, it is vital to explore innovative treatments like Ibogaine while ensuring safety and support for those who have served. With continued research and advocacy, there is hope that more veterans will find the relief they seek, paving the way for a brighter future.

– Dennis Bergshoeff

My experience during my Ibogaine treatment was exceptional and well coordinated. I was made to feel extremely comfortable so my transition into the introspective world of Ibogaine was smooth. Any question was answered and every need was met with compassion and love.

My psycho spiritual and addiction healing journey was worth every penny since I no longer crave like I used to, with a black hole to feed every single day. Freedom is something everybody needs from their demons and this was the catalyst in my case.

– Alexie

InnerRealms facilitated a great transformation in my life. When I was at my very worst, they helped me turn my life around.

With the help of Garyth’s knowledge of the medicine and life time of experience, along with Blair’s incredible ability to relate to others in a kind and nurturing way, I was able to change internally, on a deep level. 

– Paul B.

Opiates had been a problem for me my entire adult life. From age 19 to age 37, on and off for 18 years, but mainly on. I had never been clean for longer than 12 months. I had tried many different methods of quitting from going cold turkey on my own, detox, methadone, 12 steps, moving to different cities and even Rapid Opiate Detox surgery

- Brian

I came to Inner Realms with an addiction to grams of pure heroin a day habit for many years. I was nervous at first but right from the second I arrived, I knew I was in great hands. I was even given medication right away so I could stay comfortable the whole time.

Garyth and Blair are both extremely knowledgeable and caring, and they saved my life.

 

 

- Connor

When I found out about ibogaine and the use of it became very urgent for me to get into center as soon as possible.

I talked to 2 other ibogaine providers before Garyth. None of them felt my urgency as much as he did.

And I was on the flight to Vancouver from New York with a heavy and obsessive heroin addiction.  

- Rachele

When I first decided to seek Ibogaine treatment, a friend of mine who had been through treatment herself had just 3 words for me: “Get to Garyth.”

She told me that he was really the best provider around, and my experience in treatment showed me the value of her advice.

Inner Realms is a small, client-centric Ibogaine center run by Garyth and Blair. Over the course of several weeks, they weaned me slowly off a 10+ year methadone addiction and provided the kindest, most loving care and treatment.

They were attentive to my every physical, spiritual, psychosocial and emotional need, and made me feel both safe and welcome at Inner Realms.

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