Kambo (Phyllomedusa Bicolor)

 

1 / KAMBÔ: an Amazonian enigma

This study explores the biological and chemical properties of the Phyllomedusa bicolor secretion, specifically focusing on the peptides like phyllomedusin and caerulein that mimic biological actions in the human body.

 

Authors: Vidal Haddad Junior, Itamar Alves Martins

Link: [Read Article](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7284396/)

 

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2 / Use of Phyllomedusa bicolour secretion during kambô ritual: observational responses, dosage, and risk of adverse events.

A detailed observational study investigating how Kambo is used in ritual settings, focusing on dosage, physical responses, and the potential risks involved.

 

Authors: Caitlin Thompson, Benjamin Malcolm & John Tegzes

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/24734306.2021.2006524)

 

 

3 / Kambo: A ritualistic healing substance from an Amazonian frog and a source of new treatments

This article discusses Kambo as both a traditional shamanic tool and a potential pharmacological source for treating modern ailments like depression and chronic eczema.

 

Authors: Jan M Keppel Hesselink

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.clinsurggroup.us/articles/OJPM-2-107.php)

 

 

4 / Acute and subacute psychoactive effects of Kambô: retrospective reports

Research analyzing the short-term and lingering psychoactive effects of Kambo based on retrospective reports from users.

 

Authors: Timo Torsten Schmidt, Simon Reiche, Caroline L C Hage, Felix Bermpohl, Tomislav Majić

 

Link: [Read Article](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7725827/)

 

 

5 / Kambô: A Shamanic Medicine - Personal Testimonies

A compilation of personal accounts and clinical observations regarding the use of Kambo in a shamanic context.

 

Authors: Jan M Keppel Hesselink

 

Link: [Read Article](https://juniperpublishers.com/jojcs/JOJCS.MS.ID.555739.php)

 

 

6 / The Amazonian kambô frog Phyllomedusa bicolor: Current knowledge on biology, toxinology, and medical aspects

A comprehensive review of the current scientific understanding of the frog’s biology, geographic distribution, and medical ethnopharmacology.

 

Authors: Thais A. C. Nogueira, Igor Luis Kaefer, et al.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.997318/full)

 

 

Crystals and Gemstones (Cultural & Traditional Use)

 

1 / Crystals and Kabbala

 

An exploration of the relationship between gemstone properties and Jewish mystical traditions.

 

Authors: Robert Rhodes

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.sefaria.org.il/sheets/288196?lang=he)

 

 

2 / Twelve Precious Jewels

 

An analysis of the twelve stones found in the Hoshen (High Priest's breastplate) and their spiritual significance.

 

Authors: Rabbi Ben-Tzion Spitz

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.chabad.org/kabbalah/article_cdo/aid/3965005/jewish/Twelve-Precious-Jewels.htm)

 

 

3 / Lost Jewish Belief in the Healing Power of Crystals and Gemstones

An article detailing the historical use of stones in Jewish folklore for physical and emotional healing.

 

Authors: Darren Stein

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.kibitzspot.com/healing-power-of-crystals-and-gemstones/)

 

 

4 / Crystal healing and gem therapy

A professional review of how crystal and gem therapy are categorized within the scope of complementary medicine.

 

Authors: Truter, I.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://journals.co.za/doi/10.10520/EJC81566)

 

 

5 / A REVIEW ARTICLE ON THE ROLE OF GEMSTONES (NAVRATNA) IN AYURVEDA

This review examines the importance of the nine primary gemstones (Navratna) in Ayurvedic medicine.

 

Authors: Sahoo, S., et al.

 

Link: [Link to IJRPR](https://ijrpr.com/)

 

 

6 / Use of crystals and semi-precious stones in Ayurveda​

A resource discussing the practical application of stones within the Ayurvedic wellness framework.

 

Resource: StoneMania Bijou

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.stonemania.ro/)

 

 

7 / Ratna (Gemstones): Introduction, Types, Qualities, Ayurvedic Uses

A comprehensive guide to the qualities and healing properties of gemstones as defined in traditional Indian medicine.

 

Resource: Easy Ayurveda

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.easyayurveda.com/)

 

 

8 / Gemstones in Wellness: A Meta-Analysis of Placebo-Controlled Studies

A scientific look at the psychological effects and clinical findings related to gemstone usage and the placebo effect.

 

Authors: Nancy Gumber

 

Link: [Link to IJRTMR](https://ijrtmr.com/)

 

 

9 / Heku - Magical Crystals, Gemstones and Minerals of the Ancient Egyptians

Investigating the use of minerals in Ancient Egypt for protection and ritual magic (Heku).

 

Resource: Iseum Sanctuary

 

Link: [Read Article](https://iseumsanctuary.com/2020/03/19/heku-magical-crystals-gemstones-and-minerals-of-the-ancient-egyptians/)

 

 

10 / Stones for healing

A cultural history of how humans have attributed healing powers to stones throughout the centuries.

 

Authors: Louisa McKenzie (Wellcome Collection)

 

Link: [Read Article](https://wellcomecollection.org/stories/stones-for-healing)

 

 

11 / Turquoise Tales: Native American Traditions and Beliefs

Deep dive into the significance of turquoise in Native American culture as a stone of protection and sky-connection.

 

Resource: Zadran GemsLink: [Read Article](https://www.zadrangems.com/turquoise-tales-native-american-traditions-and-beliefs/)

 

 

12 / Everything You Need to Know About Peruvian Stones & Crystals

A guide to the unique Andean stones and their roles in traditional Peruvian shamanic practices.

 

Resource: Shamans Market

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.shamansmarket.com/blogs/musings/101-peruvian-stones-crystals)

 

 

Healing Herbs (Scientific Studies)

 

1 / Exploring the Safety, Efficacy, and Bioactivity of Herbal Medicines

A study bridging traditional herbal wisdom with modern scientific verification for healthcare applications.

 

Authors: Chen, G., et al.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.xiahepublishing.com/2835-6357/FIM-2023-00086)

 

 

2 / Complementary therapies for clinical depression: an overview (Focus on St. John's Wort)

A systematic review assessing the efficacy of St. John's Wort compared to conventional treatments for depression.

 

Authors: Sarris, J., et al.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/9/8/e028527)

 

 

3 / St John's Wort for depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis

A rigorous meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials regarding St. John's Wort's antidepressant properties.

 

Authors: Ng, Q. X., et al.

 

Link: [Search PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)

 

 

4 / Effects of herbal medicines in combating antimicrobial resistance

Examining how herbal extracts can play a role in addressing the global public health threat of antibiotic resistance.

 

Authors: Silva-Carvalho, I. R., et al.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.scielo.br/j/bjb/a/KXbn7tpcnXYR7r49NVrhWfs/)

 

 

5 / Ginkgo biloba: specificity of neuropsychological improvement

A review focusing on the specific cognitive and memory improvements associated with Ginkgo biloba extract.

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Authors: Kaschel, R.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK76645/)

 

 

6 / Examining Brain-Cognition Effects of Ginkgo Biloba Extract

Research using brain activation imaging to observe the effects of Ginkgo on object working memory.

 

Authors: Kennedy, D. O., et al.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3166615/)

 

7 / Effects of lavender essential oil inhalation aromatherapy on postoperative sleep quality

A clinical trial showing how lavender aromatherapy can improve sleep outcomes in hospital patients.

 

Authors: Wang, X., et al.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1584998/full)

 

 

8 / An investigation into the stress-relieving actions of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha)

A randomized, double-blind study on the safety and efficacy of Ashwagandha in reducing stress and anxiety.

 

Authors: Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573577/)

 

 

9 / Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) May Have Antidepressant Activity

An exploratory study investigating the mood-stabilizing and antidepressant effects of chamomile in humans.

 

Authors: Amsterdam, J. D., Shults, J., Soffritti, M., et al.

 

Link: [Read Article](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3600416/)

 

 

Environment & Psychology

 

1 / Integrating Fengshui and environmental psychology into contemporary architecture

Discusses how the synthesis of ancient spatial practices and modern psychology can enhance occupant well-being.

 

Source: ABER APAC Science

Link: [Read Article](https://aber.apacsci.com/index.php/cd/article/viewFile/3036/3649)

 

 

2 / A Modern Guide to Feng Shui: Using Psychology to Enhance Your Space and Mind

A look at the psychological foundations of how our physical environment impacts our mental health and productivity.

 

Source: Psychology Today (Resource)

 

Link: [Read Article](https://simplyputpsych.co.uk/monday-musings-1/a-modern-guide-to-feng-shui-using-psychological-research-to-enhance-your-space-and-mind)