A controversial psychedelic drug some say offers freedom from addiction

Some people struggling with opioid addiction are turning to a powerful psychedelic called ibogaine. The drug is derived from the bark of an African rainforest shrub, and its proponents believe it sends people on a transformative journey that can free them from addiction. 

In countries like Mexico, ibogaine use is unregulated, so resort-like clinics are offering what they consider treatment for addiction, by sending people on powerful psychedelic trips. 

In her documentary "Ibogaine: The Last Trip?", senior CBC reporter Karen Pauls introduces us to Rocky Dhillon. He’s one of a growing number of Canadians who are seeking out this treatment in Mexico. We’ll also meet a Winnipeg businessman who is trying to get Health Canada approval for clinical trials of ibogaine, with the goal of offering it as a treatment for addiction in Canada. Some say the drug has changed their lives but there have also been tragic consequences, like the Canadian man who died on an ibogaine trip in South Africa. 

Produced by Karen Pauls and Joan Webber / originally aired on The Current. 

Storylines is part of the CBC Audio Doc Unit