How it Works
The Science Behind Kambo
Kambo contains a complex mix of bioactive peptides that interact with the body's systems to promote detoxification, immune support, and nervous system regulation. When applied to the skin, these peptides quickly enter the lymphatic system and bloodstream, triggering a rapid but temporary physiological response that often includes flushing, nausea, purging, sweating, and emotional release.
This intense reaction happens because Kambo’s peptides stimulate the body’s natural healing processes — interacting with neurotransmitters, pain receptors, and immune functions to create profound short and long-term effects.
Although Kambo has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes, modern research is just beginning to explore its potential therapeutic benefits. Of all the peptides in Kambo that have been studied, none have been identified as toxic to humans. However, Kambo is highly effective against parasites, viruses, fungi, and bacteria, and is well-regarded for its natural antibiotic properties.
Although Kambo can cause an intense physical reaction, it is considered very safe when administered by a trained and qualified practitioner. It’s essential to work with someone who understands the process and safety protocols to ensure the best experience possible
Key Peptides & Their Effects
Each peptide in Kambo serves a specific function, contributing to the physical sensations and detoxification effects experienced during a session. Below is a breakdown of the major peptides and what they do.
Phyllocaerulein (Gastrointestinal & Detox Peptide)
✔ Stimulates digestion, bile production, and stomach contractions
✔ Lowers blood pressure, which can lead to lightheadedness
✔ Triggers nausea and vomiting as part of the cleansing process
💡 What This Means in a Kambo Session:
Phyllocaerulein is a major reason why people purge during a session. It stimulates the stomach, gallbladder, and pancreas, causing the body to release stored toxins through vomiting or bowel movements. It also lowers blood pressure, which is why some people feel lightheaded or faint for a short time
Phyllokinin (Circulatory & Inflammation-Regulating Peptide)
✔ Expands blood vessels, improving circulation
✔ Temporarily reduces pain sensitivity
✔ Can cause mild facial swelling ("frog face")
💡 What This Means in a Kambo Session:
Phyllokinin plays a role in the temporary drop in blood pressure after Kambo is applied, which can cause weakness or dizziness for a few minutes. It contributes to the flushed skin, warmth, and swelling that some people experience, and also helps with temporary pain relief by relaxing the nervous system.
Sauvagine (Stress-Response & Circulatory Peptide)
✔ Expands blood vessels, temporarily lowering blood pressure
✔ Stimulates the release of stress hormones (cortisol, adrenaline, noradrenaline)
✔ Can contribute to emotional release & deep relaxation after a session
💡 What This Means in a Kambo Session:
Sauvagine is responsible for the intense heat and flushing people feel right after Kambo is applied. It triggers the body's “fight or flight” response, which is why some people feel a rush of fear, anxiety, or intense emotions at first—but this usually fades into a sense of clarity and calm once the session is over.
Dermorphins & Deltorphins (Natural Pain-Relief Peptides)
✔ Stronger than morphine (but non-addictive)
✔ Induces deep relaxation and euphoria
✔ May help with chronic pain relief
💡 What This Means in a Kambo Session:
These natural opioid peptides are why many people feel deeply relaxed, clear-headed, and even euphoric after Kambo. They help release stored tension and pain, both physically and emotionally.
Phyllomedusin (Mucus-Clearing & Detox Peptide)
✔ Causes the body to release mucus, sweat, and tears
✔ Increases heart rate and circulation
✔ Stimulates the intestines, sometimes leading to bowel movements
💡 What This Means in a Kambo Session:
Phyllomedusin is why your nose runs, your eyes water, and your body sweats during Kambo. It helps push toxins, mucus, and stored waste out of the body, which is why people feel clear-headed and refreshed afterward.
Dermaseptins (Antimicrobial & Immune-Support Peptides)
✔ Fights bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites
✔ May support immune function and wound healing
✔ Being studied for anti-cancer properties
💡 What This Means in a Kambo Session:
Dermaseptins act like natural antibiotics, which may explain why some people report clearer skin, improved immune function, and reduced chronic infections after Kambo.
For those interested in the scientific research behind Kambo, you can read the full PDF of peer-reviewed studies here:
The Process: Why Kambo Feels Intense
Kambo’s rapid and intense effects are due to the way these peptides interact with the body. The sequence of events typically looks like this:
- First Few Minutes: A wave of heat and flushing spreads through the body as blood vessels expand (caused by phyllokinin & sauvagine)
- Shortly After: The heart beats faster and nausea builds (due to phyllocaerulein & phyllomedusin)
- The Purge: Vomiting, sweating, tears, and bowel movements begin as the body releases stored toxins (triggered by phyllomedusin)
- Recovery Phase: A sense of calm, clarity, and relief follows as the body resets once the Kambo is removed (from dermorphins & deltorphins)
This process typically lasts between 10–30 minutes.
To learn about what you’ll experience in a session and whether Kambo is for you, jump to:
The Science of Detoxification & Immune Support
Though research is still ongoing, Kambo peptides are being studied for their potential in:
✔ Autoimmune conditions – Some peptides may help permanently regulate inflammation and immune response
✔ Chronic pain relief – Natural opioids in Kambo may help with chronic pain management
✔ Mental health support – Some peptides are linked to stress relief & emotional balance
✔ Infection resistance – Dermaseptins are being explored for their antiviral & antibacterial properties
Certain compounds in Kambo stimulate endogenous opioid receptors, which may contribute to its ability to support pain relief, mood regulation, and overall well-being.
Additionally, some of Kambo’s peptides are capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, while others may alter its permeability, allowing compounds to enter the brain that would not normally be able to. This synergistic effect is one of the reasons Kambo is believed to have such deep neurological and physiological benefits.
While Kambo is not a cure-all, its unique combination of peptides can help support overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being.