Ibogaine is a psychoactive plant compound found in the root bark of a shrub from Central and West Africa.
A Mississauga man is facing criminal charges after a Waterloo Region resident died following what police describe as a private healing ceremony involving ibogaine, a psychoactive substance that is not authorized for use in Canada.
The Waterloo Regional Police Service says its General Investigations Unit launched a sudden death investigation on July 4 following the death of a man.
Investigators allege the man had arranged to take part in a private ibogaine healing experience before his death.
According to police, the deceased consumed ibogaine, a psychoactive alkaloid extracted from the root bark of a shrub native to Central West Africa. Health Canada has not approved ibogaine as a medical treatment, and it is not authorized for use in Canada.
As part of the investigation, police raided a residence in Mississauga on July 30.
Officers say they seized suspected ibogaine along with several other powders, liquids and capsules, which have been submitted to Health Canada for analysis.
As a result of the investigation, 57-year-old Luis Da Silva has been charged with criminal negligence causing death and selling a prescription drug recklessly.
He was held for a bail hearing.
Police have not released details about where the alleged healing ceremony took place or identified the deceased.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone with information to contact the Waterloo Regional Police Service.
Police warn the public about the risks associated with ibogaine, saying the substance can cause nausea and vomiting and, in some cases, lead to serious injury or death.
Ibogaine has been promoted in some parts of the world as an alternative treatment for addiction and other mental health conditions, but it has not been approved by Health Canada. Because of concerns over potentially serious side effects, including heart complications, its use remains restricted in Canada.
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