Kambo Administration and Its Association With Sudden Death: Clinical and Forensic Perspectives From a Systematic Review

TL;DR

This paper reviews the potential dangers of Kambo, a traditional Amazonian practice, including sudden death and severe health risks.

Contribution

The study systematically reviews clinical and forensic cases linking Kambo to sudden death and highlights the need for surveillance.

Findings

Only a few cases of death have been reported following Kambo intake.

Kambo may cause sudden cardiac death and esophageal rupture, especially in those with pre-existing conditions.

Abstract

Kambo (Kambô) is a secretion of an amphibian traditionally used by indigenous tribes in the Amazon region. This secretion is derived from the giant monkey frog (Phyllomedusa bicolor) and is utilized in tribal cleansing rituals known as Kambo ceremonies. Kambo is purported to offer several benefits, both physical and psychological. Proponents of this practice claim that it can enhance physical endurance, sharpen mental clarity, and boost overall health. However, the side effects, such as tachycardia, blood pressure fluctuations, and gastrointestinal distress, highlight the need for caution. In this work, we analyzed the correlation between Kambo intake and the risk of death. A literature review demonstrated that only a few cases of death have been described to date. These reported cases emphasize the need to consider potential and concrete dangers associated with Kambo uptake, including sudden cardiac death and esophageal rupture. These episodes may be exacerbated in patients with pre-existing risk factors. Careful epidemiological and toxicological surveillance is required to timely identify these events, especially considering the difficulties related to the isolation of Kambo peptides.

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