Kambō
What is Kambō?
Kambō, or “Akate” in the Matsés language, is a traditional Amazonian medicine derived from the secretion of the Phyllomedusa bicolour frog. Renowned for its potent cleansing and revitalising properties, Kambō is often experienced as a catalyst for clarity, energy, emotional release, and physical reset.
Many people report increased vitality, sharpened awareness, and a profound feeling of renewal following a ceremony. Kambō is traditionally used to support a wide range of physical, emotional, and spiritual needs — from detoxification and immune support to focus, resilience, and grounded personal transformation.
the benefits of kambō
Many people experience a range of physical, emotional, and energetic shifts after working with Kambō. While each person’s journey is unique, common reflections include:
Detoxification & Reset
Kambō is traditionally used to cleanse the body by supporting the release of stagnant energy, heaviness, and internal toxins. Many people describe feeling “lighter” and more aligned afterwards.
Emotional Release
The ceremony can help bring stored emotions to the surface, allowing space for clarity, softening, and an emotional reset.
Clarity & Focus
After a session, many report a renewed sense of direction, improved mental sharpness, and greater connection to their inner guidance.
Increased Vitality
Kambō is often described as providing a surge in energy and a deeper feeling of renewal — physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Nervous System Reset
The intensity of the process can help regulate and rebalance the nervous system, leaving people feeling grounded, steady, and centred.
Spiritual Insight
For some, Kambō opens a deeper connection with intuition, purpose, and the natural world — offering insight that continues to unfold long after the session.
Ethics of Practice
I completed my Kambō training in the Amazon, outside Iquitos, Peru, and I’m a registered practitioner with Kambō Naturista.
My medicine is sourced directly from Indigenous Matsés tribesmen, with no middleman. I pay above market rates to honour fair trade and ensure the community receives the full benefit of their work.
The families I work with follow traditional, ethical harvesting methods that protect the frogs and their habitat. The frogs are never harmed.
In Aotearoa, I plant a native tree for every session as an act of reciprocity and ecological care.
the Science behind Kambō
Kambō contains a unique collection of bioactive peptides — naturally occurring molecules that interact with the body in various ways. These peptides have been studied for their potential effects on the nervous system, immune response, circulation, and pain pathways.
While Kambō is not a medical treatment and should not be used to diagnose or cure illness, scientific research has shown that some of its peptides exhibit properties such as:
-Supporting immune activity-
-Affecting pain receptors-
-Influencing vascular and digestive function-
-Interacting with the body’s natural regulatory systems-
For those interested in exploring the research further, you can read a peer-reviewed paper on Kambō’s peptide profile and biological activity here:
Kambō is best understood as a traditional Amazonian practice with emerging scientific interest — a bridge between indigenous knowledge and modern biochemistry.
What happens in a kambō session?
1. Intention Setting & Hapé
A grounding moment to open the space.
2. Drinking Water
You drink 1.5–2L to support the cleansing process.
3. Application of Kambō
Small skin burns allow the peptides to enter.
4. The Purge
Release through vomiting, sweating, and emotional clearing.
5. Closing & Integration
Resting, hydration, and grounding support.