Psychedelics are drawing attention like never before. Some people call them dangerous, others call them life-saving, and many believe they could reshape the future of mental health.
In this episode of Causes or Cures, I talk with Martín Polanco, MD, founder of The Mission Within Foundation and one of the most experienced ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT physicians in North America. Over 25 years, he has treated more than 5,000 people, including over 1,300 veterans and special operators, giving him unmatched clinical perspective in a field often clouded by hype and controversy.
Why Ibogaine for PTSD?
Veterans and frontline workers often live with overlapping mental health conditions: PTSD, depression, addiction, and traumatic brain injury. Conventional therapies don’t always bring relief, which is why many are exploring psychedelic medicines like ibogaine. Dr. Polanco shares why PTSD may respond differently to this treatment and how his patients describe the impact.
What We Cover in the Episode
*What ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT are, how they affect the brain, and how they differ from other psychedelics.
*Why PTSD and other mental health issues rarely occur alone, and how psychedelic therapies may help address complex conditions.
*How The Mission Within prepares participants, guides them through treatment, and emphasizes integration for long-term results.
*What has been seen in veterans and first responders who undergo ibogaine treatment for PTSD and related conditions.
*The risks, especially cardiac risks, and the safety measures in place to reduce them.
*Misconceptions about psychedelic therapy and where skepticism is justified.
*The launch of The Mission Within Foundation, which has already raised more than $2 million to fund psychedelic therapy scholarships for veterans and first responders.
*Why collaborations with institutions like UT Austin Dell Medical School are critical for building the scientific evidence base.
*And the bigger question: are ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT ready for mainstream mental health care, or does the science still need time to catch up?
Listen to the Full Conversation
This is a candid discussion about possibility, risk, and the urgent need for new tools in mental health.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of Causes or Cures here
You can also listen on my Youtube channel here:
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