Tabernanthe iboga

Tabernanthe iboga is an African shrub whose roots, stems, and leaves contain ibogaine, a principal iboga alkaloid. Ibogaine is a hallucinogenic drug that acts as a stimulant in small doses. Indigenous peoples of West Africa and the Congo region have historically used iboga extracts to maintain alertness while hunting.1

Chemically, ibogaine is an indole hallucinogen that can block serotonin's action in the brain. It was once considered for medical use as an antidepressant but was not adopted due to the availability of safer alternatives. The plant also contains tabernanthine, another bitter crystalline alkaloid found alongside ibogaine.12