He sampled the drug, derived from the root of an African shrub, and experienced strange, colorful three-dimensional visualizations that kept him awake for more than a day. In a sense, the trip has lasted for 30 years. For what Lotsof said he discovered in 1962 is a drug that treats addiction. Lotsof has become the guru of a small band of evangelists, who speak of the drug almost reverentially. They accompany addicts to the Netherlands for legal, experimental treatment.
Scientists regard the claims about ibogaine skeptically.
But several studies have shown that Lotsof may be right. This year, NIDA is funding 10 studies to explore ibogaine's potential. But the fact that NIDA is doing a study is very important. The medical community's interest has given a measure of legitimacy to a compound that the Drug Enforcement Administration lists as a dangerous controlled substance, although there is no record of ibogaine addiction. By the time the ibogaine wears off, you don't have any craving.