What is it, briefly?
“Bufo alvarius” (new name: Incilius alvarius) is a desert toad. The glands in its skin produce a substance that in some places is used in spiritual ceremonies, usually smoked. It is a very powerful and short experience that is not for everyone.
History & cultural background
It is not an ancient Amazonian “plant” medicine, but of animal origin. In modern spiritual circles it became known toward the end of the 20th century, mainly in Mexico and the USA. Today several schools and communities use it with different ceremonial frameworks.
What’s inside? (Active compounds & neurochemistry)
The primary active compound is 5‑MeO‑DMT. This tryptamine acts very quickly and can completely transform perception for a short time. It is not famous for “colorful visions”; people more often report deep unity or light experiences. It is important to know that this is a very potent substance and can interact dangerously with many medications (for example, antidepressants).
Setting & preparation
This is not about how to produce or use it. Where someone encounters this substance in a legal, regulated environment with trained professionals, the important factors are: a safe place, medical prescreening, clear rules, experienced facilitators, and an emergency plan.
What does a session look like? (Briefly)
Typically, after a short preparation, the participant is in a comfortable, safe posture with assistants nearby. The main experience unfolds within minutes while facilitators monitor breathing, posture, and safety. Rest and grounding follow.
What might the experiences be like?
- Body: strong bodily sensations, warmth, trembling, vocalization.
- Emotions: a big release; crying or laughter may occur.
- Mind: many describe it as “ego dissolution” — as if the inner dialogue ceases.
- Spiritual: unity, light, love experiences; for others, confusion or fear may also appear.
Because it is highly intense, a safe environment and skilled support are always required.
How long does it last?
The peak experience is usually 10–20 minutes. The comedown is about 30–60 minutes, but after‑effects (calm or sensitivity) can last for hours to days.
Possible benefits
According to some reports it can help reduce anxiety and existential tension, and provide a deeply felt sense of “starting over.” Scientific evidence is still limited, and outcomes depend greatly on the setting, the intention, and whether proper aftercare is provided.
What to do afterwards? (Integration)
- Journal: what happened, what you felt, what insights arose.
- Ground yourself: water, warm food, a walk, rest.
- Talk about it: with a trusted person or professional.
- Time: avoid major decisions right now — give yourself a few days.
What to avoid? (Diet & preparation)
- Beforehand: avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, eat lightly, normalize sleep.
- Medications: especially antidepressants (SSRI/SNRI), MAOIs, and other psychiatric drugs — never change anything without medical guidance.
- Mental preparation: clear intention; practice breathing/relaxation.
Who should avoid it? (Risks)
⚠️ Safety warning
- Psychiatric conditions: psychosis, bipolar I, unstable states — not recommended.
- Cardiovascular: untreated hypertension, arrhythmia, recent cardiac events — contraindicated.
- Neurology: seizure tendency, epilepsy — risky.
- Medications: MAOI, SSRI/SNRI, TCA, stimulants — dangerous interactions.
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding: prohibited.
Only approach this topic in a legal, safe environment, with knowledgeable guidance and after medical exclusions.
Legal information
5‑MeO‑DMT is regulated or prohibited in many countries. Disturbing wild toads can pose conservation and animal‑welfare problems with legal consequences. Local laws always apply. For ethical reasons, more and more practitioners support animal‑free (synthetic) alternatives.
Conservation & ethics
- Animal protection: protect wild toads; adopt a “no‑milking” approach.
- Ethics: informed consent, transparent frameworks, aftercare.
- Respect: prioritize facts, humility, and responsibility over spiritual labels.
Legal disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes. It does not provide medical or legal advice and does not encourage illegal activity. The aim is information, safety, and respect for nature.