Introduction to Ibogaine Research
As Texas cements its reputation as a psychedelic research hub, a new documentary spotlights ibogaine’s potential to help veterans struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
Directed by two-time Academy Award nominee and Emmy winner Lucy Walker, the film, which is still in production, traces ibogaine’s roots and follows current research into its therapeutic use, particularly amongst military veterans. Ibogaine is a psychoactive compound found in the bark of the iboga shrub native to Central and West Africa. Early clinical studies suggest promise for treating substance use disorders and post-traumatic stress in veterans, though researchers are still testing safety and effectiveness.
Gov. Greg Abbott (center), flanked by state Sen. Tan Parker, R-Flower Mound, and House Speaker Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, signs into law a $50 million grant program to bring clinical trials for the addiction and PTSD treatment ibogaine to Texas. (Karen Brooks Harper/Dallas Morning News)
Karen Brooks Harper
The Documentary and Its Premiere
The yet-titled documentary is slated for a 2026 world premiere, said spokesperson Marissa Feinberg. A preview of the latest footage, followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A, is set for Thursday, Oct. 16, at 5:30 p.m. at Cinépolis Dallas.
Panel Discussion and Q&A
Panelists include former NFL guard and traumatic brain injury advocate Robert Gallery; former Marine Jay Kopelman, executive director of the Mission Within Foundation, which expands psychedelic therapy access for veterans; and psychedelic researcher Dr. Martin Polanco.
Lucy Walker’s Previous Work
Walker previously directed Netflix’s How to Change Your Mind, the four-part docuseries inspired by Michael Pollan’s 2018 book about the rise, fall and resurgence of psychedelics such as LSD, psilocybin, MDMA and mescaline.
Support for the Documentary
Miriam Fauzia is a science reporting fellow at The Dallas Morning News. Her fellowship is supported by the University of Texas at Dallas. The News makes all editorial decisions.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the new documentary about ibogaine’s potential to help veterans struggling with addiction and mental health issues is a significant step forward in the field of psychedelic research. With the support of the state of Texas and the involvement of renowned researchers and advocates, this documentary has the potential to raise awareness and promote further research into the therapeutic use of ibogaine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ibogaine?
Ibogaine is a psychoactive compound found in the bark of the iboga shrub native to Central and West Africa.
What is the documentary about?
The documentary, directed by Lucy Walker, explores the potential of ibogaine to help veterans struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
When is the documentary set to premiere?
The documentary is slated for a 2026 world premiere.
Who are the panelists for the preview discussion?
The panelists include former NFL guard and traumatic brain injury advocate Robert Gallery, former Marine Jay Kopelman, and psychedelic researcher Dr. Martin Polanco.
How can I get the latest news on ibogaine research?
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