Iboga

The sacred shrub of the Bwiti religion – its bark opens the way to the world of the ancestors for initiates.

A shrub of the dogbane family, growing 2–10 m tall in the understorey of the humid forests of Central Africa. It has small white or pinkish flowers and orange, egg-shaped fruits. The root bark contains the alkaloid ibogaine, which in large doses induces intense visions lasting many hours. Ibogaine is being studied as an aid in treating opioid addiction, which has fuelled growing demand and the illegal export of the plant.

Significance in the country

Iboga lies at the heart of Bwiti – a syncretic religion of the Mitsogo, Apindji and Fang peoples in which eating the bark is an initiation rite; the state has recognised it as part of the national heritage and restricts its export.

Where it grows

Wild in the forest understorey throughout the country and cultivated near villages; Bwiti traditions are strongest in the provinces of Ngounié, Ogooué-Lolo, Moyen-Ogooué and Estuaire.

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