Kambo: An Indigenous Ally in Threshold & Healing Work
At certain moments in our lives, we find ourselves at the edge of something—between what was and what is becoming. These liminal spaces can feel uncertain, yet they are rich with possibility. At Thresholding, we honor these in-between times as sacred. We offer initiatory experiences designed to support and guide you as you cross into new ways of being.
What Is Kambo?
Kambo, also known as Sapo, is the secretion of the Giant Monkey Frog (Phyllomedusa bicolor), a nocturnal amphibian native to the Amazon rainforest. This potent secretion is rich in bioactive peptides that the frog uses to defend itself against predators and pathogens. For humans, Kambo has been traditionally used by Indigenous Amazonian tribes as a powerful cleansing ritual to enhance physical resilience and spiritual clarity.
At Thresholding, we honor Kambo as a sacred ally in navigating life’s pivotal transitions. Our approach integrates Kambo within a framework of embodied witnessing and spiritual direction, supporting individuals through times of uncertainty and transformation.
How Does Kambo Work?
During a Kambo session, a trained practitioner applies small burns—called “gates”—to the skin, typically on the arm or ankle. The Kambo secretion is then applied to these points, allowing one of the most concentrated forms of bioactive peptides to enter the lymphatic system. To find out more about some of these peptides and neuropeptides, check out this chart. This process initiates a purgative response, facilitating the release of physical toxins and emotional blockages.
Our practitioners provide a safe and supportive environment, guiding you through the experience with care and presence. Post-session, we offer resources and practices to aid in integration, ensuring that the insights gained are woven into your daily life.
Kambo Session Overview
Contraindications and Safety Considerations
Kambo is a powerful medicine and is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain health conditions, such as heart problems, low blood pressure, or a history of stroke, should not participate in Kambo sessions. A comprehensive list of contraindications is available in our Client Services Agreement. We conduct thorough health assessments to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
- Read Client Services Agreement
Preparing for Your Kambo Session
To engage with Kambo in a meaningful and respectful way, we recommend the following preparations:
Intention Setting
Reflect on your purpose for seeking Kambo. Clarifying your intentions can deepen the experience and guide your journey. That clarifying step toward this experience crosses a threshold- notice what you notice.
Dietary Guidelines
Adopt an aligned diet several days prior to your session. Avoid, where possible processed foods, caffeine, alcohol and “loud” life issues including stressful work/personal commitments- anything that might interfere with you having your most supported experience. (This includes being mindful of your connection with media of all kinds.) This helps to prepare your body, mind and spirit for the clearest, purgative process.
Hydration
Maintain adequate hydration in the days before your session. It is very important that you avoid excessive water intake immediately before your session.
Salt Intake
Being on a low or no salt diet creates additional, very serious risks with Kambo. Some participants find that working electrolytes, sea salt and trace minerals into their diet in the days or week leading up to their Kambo experience to be helpful. Please notify your Kambo practitioner and carefully moderate your salt consumption to support the body’s natural balance during the detoxification process.
For detailed preparation instructions, please refer to our Client Services Agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I care for my Kambo gates after the session?
After your session, the application points may appear as small burns. Our practitioners will apply a topical solution to support healing. Over time, these marks may fade, though some individuals may experience slight scarring or discoloration, particularly those with darker skin tones. In general, aftercare involves keeping the area clean and dry and monitoring for signs of infection. You will receive instructions during your session and, in general, treat the Kambo gates like any other burn. Your practitioner will apply an Indigenous healing and protective compound, known as Dragon’s Blood, directly to the burns following the Ceremony. That compound forms a dark red, protective layer over the Kambo gate. That dark red dot will fall off in a week or so, often when bathing. Sometimes people may use arnica or vitamin E oil as part of their post care. For some participants with darker skin tones, Keloids (an area of irregular fibrous tissue formed at the site of an injury or scar) is a possibility at the Kambo gate site. Again, treating the area like any other burn is what is recommended and, while some scarring is possible, it is typically minimal given the superficiality and small size of the Kambo gate burn sites.
Are the frogs harmed during the Kambo collection process?
No. Our Kambo is sourced from suppliers who follow ethical harvesting methods that do not harm the frogs. We are committed to the well-being of these animals and the sustainability of their habitats.
How do you ethically source Kambo?
More on Ethical Harvesting and Frog Welfare:
We are deeply committed to the ethical sourcing of Kambo. Indigenous practices that ensure the frogs are unharmed during the Kambo extraction collection process are utilized by Cocama tribe. Additionally, with regard to the population numbers of this frog, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently lists the Giant Monkey Frog as a species of “Least Concern,” indicating stable populations on the planet.
To support the preservation of these remarkable creatures and their habitats, we encourage contributions to conservation efforts through the practice of Ayni—sacred reciprocity. For more information on how to give back, you can also see the Ayni section below and visit our Resources page.
What is Ayni, and how can I practice it?
Ayni is a principle of sacred reciprocity, emphasizing balance and mutual respect between humans and nature. Practicing Ayni can involve making donations to conservation organizations, participating in community service, or other acts of giving back. Visit our Resources page for suggestions on how to engage in Ayni.
Contact Us
For further information or to schedule a Kambo session, please contact us by clicking the button below.
