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Bwiti House Iboga Retreat Center Profile Overview
Bwiti House Overview
Bwiti House stands as the world's premier destination for authentic Bwiti Missoko tradition and medically supervised Iboga retreats. Located in the heart of Gabon, Central Africa—the ancestral home of the sacred Iboga plant—Bwiti House offers a unique bridge between ancient indigenous wisdom and modern safety protocols. Founded by Moughenda Mikala, a 10th-generation Nima (Shaman), the center is dedicated to preserving the purity of the Bwiti tradition while providing a secure, life-changing environment for international seekers and patients.
Since its inception in 1990, Bwiti House has set the global standard for Iboga provision. Unlike many clinics that utilize clinical Ibogaine extracts in sterile hospital settings, Bwiti House immerses guests in the "Village" experience. Here, healing is holistic—addressing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual bodies simultaneously. The center is officially endorsed by the Gabonese Minister of Tourism, recognizing it as a cultural treasure and a pivotal institution for medical tourism in Africa. Whether you are seeking relief from severe addiction, healing from trauma, or a profound spiritual awakening, Bwiti House offers a direct connection to the source of the medicine.
Mission and Philosophy
The core philosophy of Bwiti House is grounded in "Truth." In the Bwiti tradition, Iboga is not merely a drug or a psychedelic; it is a master teacher that reveals the objective truth of one's life. The center's mission is to empower individuals to navigate crucial life transitions, uncover their full potential, and gain the clarity needed for decisive action. This is achieved through a rigorous adherence to safety, authenticity, and respect for the lineage that has safeguarded this medicine for thousands of years.
Key Takeaways
✔Authenticity: The only center offering direct access to 10th-generation Bwiti Missoko lineage teachings in the birthplace of Iboga.
✔Medical Safety: Comprehensive medical screening by US doctors and proximity to the state-recognized Bifoun Medical Center.
✔Global Network: A hub that has trained over 50 certified providers worldwide, ensuring high standards of care globally.
✔Holistic Approach: Combines powerful detox protocols with traditional ceremonies, spiritual showers, and counseling.
✔Sustainability: Committed to reforestation and community support, ensuring the Iboga plant is preserved for future generations.
✔Diverse Programs: Offers everything from drug detoxification and psycho-spiritual retreats to intense provider training courses.
Did You Know?
Iboga is enshrined in the Gabonese constitution as a "National Treasure." Unlike in many Western nations where it is classified as a controlled substance, in Gabon, it is celebrated as a vital cultural and spiritual resource. Bwiti House works in direct cooperation with the government to ensure safe, legal, and respectful access to this powerful medicine for international visitors.
Treatments and Programs Offered
Bwiti House offers a comprehensive range of treatments designed to address deep-seated physical addictions, psychological traumas, and spiritual stagnation. By utilizing the whole root bark of the Iboga plant rather than isolated extracts, patients receive the full spectrum of alkaloids, which provides a more balanced and grounding healing experience.
Psycho-Spiritual Retreats
These retreats are designed for individuals seeking clarity, purpose, and emotional healing. They are ideal for those struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or a general sense of being "stuck" in life. The program includes traditional ceremonies where participants engage with the Spirit of Iboga to uncover the root causes of their suffering.
✔Duration: Typically 10-14 days.
✔Inclusions: Traditional Bwiti ceremonies, spiritual counseling, jungle excursions, and integration support.
✔Outcome: Deep emotional release, connection to ancestry, and a renewed zest for life.
Medical Detox & Addiction Recovery
Bwiti House provides one of the most effective opioid and substance abuse detox programs in the world. The "ibogaine" alkaloid within the root naturally interrupts addiction pathways in the brain, resetting opioid receptors to a pre-addicted state often within a single treatment. This program is distinct because it combines the biological reset of Iboga with the psychological rebuilding of Bwiti counseling.
✔Conditions Treated: Opioid addiction (Heroin, Fentanyl, OxyContin), Alcoholism, Stimulant abuse, and severe Kratom dependency.
✔Protocol: A 60-day "Ultimate Detox" program is available for severe cases, ensuring a complete reset and behavioral integration.
✔Safety: Constant monitoring by medical staff and experienced providers to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
Traditional Bwiti Initiation (Rites of Passage)
For those called to the deeper path, Bwiti House offers the full Initiation. This is a profound "Rite of Passage" that marks the transition from one stage of life to another. It involves deep immersion in Bwiti cosmology and rituals.
Provider Training (Level 1 & 2)
As a teaching center, Bwiti House offers rigorous training for those wishing to become Iboga providers. This is not a weekend workshop but an intensive apprenticeship under Moughenda Mikala. Students learn safety protocols, ceremonial music, counseling techniques, and the proper handling of the medicine. This program ensures that the expansion of Iboga globally is done safely and ethically.
Specialists and Medical Team
The team at Bwiti House represents a powerful fusion of traditional indigenous mastery and modern Western medical oversight. This dual approach ensures that every guest is held in a container of absolute safety and profound wisdom.
Moughenda Mikala - 10th Generation Nima (Shaman)
Moughenda Mikala is the visionary founder of Bwiti House and a direct descendant of a 10th-generation line of Bwiti shamans. He is widely regarded as one of the most knowledgeable experts on Iboga in the world. Moughenda bridges the gap between the African rainforest and the Western mind, having lived and taught extensively in the West before returning to Gabon to build his village. His teachings focus on practical application—how to take the insights from the ceremony and apply them to everyday life to create lasting happiness.
The Medical Safety Team
Safety is the non-negotiable priority at Bwiti House. The facility employs a robust medical screening process before any guest arrives in Gabon.
✔US-Based Medical Review: A team of certified doctors in the United States reviews every applicant's medical history, including mandatory EKG results and liver panels.
✔Contraindication Screening: Rigorous checks for heart conditions, medication interactions (SSRIs, MAOIs), and other risk factors.
Chef Gilles & Hospitality Staff
Healing also comes through nourishment. Chef Gilles leads the "Bwiti Kitchen," preparing fresh, organic meals sourced from the local jungle and markets. The diet is tailored to support the Iboga process, focusing on clean, nutrient-dense foods that ground the body. The hospitality team ensures that despite the remote location, guests enjoy comfort in either the traditional "Village Accommodation" or the upgraded "Jungle Suites."
Patient Testimonials and Success Stories
Bwiti House has facilitated the healing of thousands of individuals from across the globe. From high-profile thought leaders to individuals seeking private recovery, the consensus is one of profound, life-altering transformation.
"A Complete Reset of the Soul"
"I had tried everything for my depression—therapy, medication, meditation retreats. Nothing reached the core of the issue. My time at Bwiti House was challenging, I won't lie, but it was the most important experience of my life. The clarity I received in the ceremony was like 10 years of therapy in one night. I left Gabon not just 'cured' but truly alive for the first time."
— Sarah J., Canada (Psycho-Spiritual Retreat)
"Authenticity You Can Feel"
"I've been to other 'medicine' retreats in South America, but Bwiti House is different. There is no New Age fluff here. It is raw, real, and incredibly grounded. Moughenda and his team are masters of their craft. You feel safe, seen, and supported every step of the way. The connection to the tradition makes the medicine so much more powerful."
— Mark R., USA (Initiate)
"Saved From Opioids"
"After a decade of battling opioid addiction and multiple failed rehab stints, I was skeptical. But Iboga is a miracle. It didn't just stop the withdrawals; it showed me *why* I was using in the first place. It's been two years since I left the village, and I haven't touched a pill since. Bwiti House saved my life."
— David L., UK (Detox Program)
Notable Visits
Bwiti House has hosted numerous public figures and wellness experts, helping to bring Iboga into the mainstream conversation. Aubrey Marcus, founder of Onnit and podcast host, recorded a profound conversation with Moughenda, citing the deep physical and spiritual healing of the tradition. Gerry Powell, founder of Rythmia, credits the early work of Moughenda's lineage for inspiring his own journey into plant medicine.
Awards and Recognitions
Bwiti House is not just a retreat center; it is a recognized cultural institution.
✔Endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism: Officially recognized by the Gabonese government as a premier destination for cultural and medical tourism.
✔Global Training Hub: Recognized as the leading authority in Iboga Provider Training, with alumni establishing safety-focused centers in over 9 countries.
✔Media Features: The center and its founder have been featured in Bloomberg Originals, exploring the potential of Iboga to solve the opioid crisis, and in People Magazine regarding celebrity healing journeys.
✔Community Leadership: Moughenda Mikala was elected as a Deputy for the Moyen-Ogooué Province in 2025, reflecting the deep trust the local community places in the leadership of Bwiti House.
Why Choose Gabon for Your Retreat?
Traveling to Gabon is a journey to the "Source." While Iboga is available in other countries, receiving the medicine in the land where it grows and where the tradition originated offers an energetic potency that cannot be replicated.
The "Switzerland of West Africa"
Gabon is often referred to as the "Switzerland of West Africa" due to its political stability, economic prosperity, and safety. It is one of the most peaceful nations on the continent, ranking high on the Global Peace Index. Visitors can travel with confidence, knowing they are in a secure environment supported by a government that actively encourages eco-tourism.
Connection to the Land
The retreat takes place in the equatorial rainforest, a biodiversity hotspot. The healing process is amplified by the environment—the sounds of the jungle, the fresh air, and the organic food. Being in Gabon allows guests to participate in authentic rituals like the "Spiritual Shower" in natural rivers and visits to sacred Pygmy sites, offering a cultural immersion that deepens the healing experience.
Fact Check: Iboga Sustainability
By choosing a retreat in Gabon, you are supporting the ethical harvesting of Iboga. Bwiti House manages its own sustainable plantations, ensuring that for every tree harvested, new ones are planted. This protects the species from over-harvesting, a major concern in the global black market.
Why Choose Bwiti House?
Choosing a provider for Iboga therapy is a life-or-death decision. Bwiti House offers the unique combination of the highest traditional authority and the strictest modern safety standards.
✔Unbroken Lineage: You are not being treated by someone who took a weekend course. You are under the care of a 10th-generation master who has spent his entire life in the tradition.
✔Whole Plant Medicine: Bwiti House uses high-quality, organic root bark, not synthetic extracts. This ensures the "Spirit" of the plant remains intact, providing a warmer, more guided experience.
✔Comprehensive Aftercare: Healing doesn't end when you leave the jungle. Bwiti House provides extensive integration support, helping you translate your insights into your daily life.
✔Village Immersion: Unlike sterile clinics, the village atmosphere fosters community. You heal alongside others, supported by the rhythm of traditional music, fire circles, and the warmth of Gabonese hospitality.
✔Proven Track Record: With over 30 years of operation and zero medical fatalities, Bwiti House has one of the best safety records in the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iboga safe to take?
Yes, when administered under strict protocols. Bwiti House requires a comprehensive medical exam (EKG and blood work) reviewed by US doctors before acceptance. We screen for contraindications like heart conditions and specific medications to ensure 100% safety. We are also located 15 minutes from a hospital for emergencies.
What is the difference between Iboga and Ibogaine?
Iboga is the full root bark containing the "spirit" of the plant and a complex spectrum of alkaloids. Ibogaine is a single isolated alkaloid extracted from the plant. While Ibogaine is effective for detox, Iboga offers a deeper psycho-spiritual journey, grounding the patient and connecting them to the lineage. Bwiti House uses the whole root for a complete healing experience.
Is it safe to travel to Gabon?
Absolutely. Gabon is one of the safest and most stable countries in Africa. Bwiti House provides a VIP concierge service that greets you at the airport and transports you directly to the village. You are escorted and cared for throughout your entire stay.
How much does a retreat cost?
Costs vary depending on the length of stay and accommodation choice (Village Room vs. Jungle Suite). Please submit an inquiry through PlacidWay to get a customized quote for your specific needs, whether for a 14-day initiation or a 60-day detox.
Will I be sick or vomit during the ceremony?
Nausea is a common physical reaction to Iboga and is viewed as a "purge" of negative energy and toxins. About 35% of people vomit. The staff is highly experienced in assisting guests through this process with compassion and dignity, ensuring you remain comfortable.
How do I prepare for the retreat?
Preparation involves setting clear intentions. We recommend a clean diet for a few weeks prior (reducing processed foods and caffeine). You will also need to stop certain medications well in advance, under the guidance of our medical team.
Can Iboga cure depression?
While we do not use the word "cure" in a medical sense, Iboga has shown remarkable results in alleviating treatment-resistant depression. It works by resetting the brain's neurotransmitters and allowing the patient to process and release deep-seated trauma that often fuels depression.
Do I need to be religious to benefit from Bwiti?
No. Bwiti is not a religion; it is a spiritual tradition based on the direct experience of truth. It is compatible with all religious beliefs (Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, etc.) and even atheism. The medicine works regardless of your belief system.
What are the accommodation options?
We offer two tiers: Village Accommodation (simple, authentic, shared rooms with fans) and Jungle Suites (private, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms). Both options are clean, comfortable, and serviced daily.
What happens after the retreat?
Integration is key. You will return home with a "clean slate." We provide aftercare coaching and access to our global community to help you implement the changes you want to make in your life and ensure the healing lasts.
Start Your Healing Journey with PlacidWay
Booking your retreat at Bwiti House through PlacidWay ensures a seamless and secure experience. As a leading medical tourism platform, PlacidWay assists you with every step of the process.
✔Verified Facility: We guarantee your connection to the authentic Bwiti House center.
✔Travel Assistance: Help with visa requirements, flights to Libreville (LBV), and logistics.
✔Transparent Pricing: Get clear, upfront costs with no hidden fees.
✔Patient Advocacy: Our team supports you from the moment you inquire until you return home safely.
Do not wait to reclaim your life. Connect with the ancient wisdom of the Bwiti and the medical safety of a world-class team.
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About Medical Center
- Speciality: Alternative Medicine, Detox, Addiction Treatment
- Location: National 1, Bifoun, Gabon, Libreville, Gabon
- Overview: Discover Ibogaine treatment in Libreville, Gabon at Bwiti House, specializing in depression treatment, addiction recovery, PTSD treatment, and more Since 1990.
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