Psychedelic Healing: Shamans in South Africa Embrace the Unconventional

Sun Nov 30 2025 07:27:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In South Africa, shamans are increasingly turning to psychedelic substances as tools for healing, despite their illegal status. The practice ignites a conversation about mental health treatment alternatives and the risks involved.

In an exploration of mental health treatment in South Africa, shamans are openly using illegal psychedelic substances like psilocybin and MDMA to help individuals heal from trauma and mental health conditions. While some patients, such as Stuart Dods, report positive experiences, the practice is met with criticism from mental health professionals who warn about the implications of unregulated therapy. With rising interest in psychedelics as potential therapeutic alternatives, the balance between healing and safety remains a contentious topic.

Although psychedelic drugs are illegal in South Africa, many self-appointed healers and shamans based in Cape Town are openly advertising that they incorporate them in their therapies.

Anyone convicted of their commercial use faces a fine, a prison sentence of up to 25 years, or both.

Photographer Stuart Dods is one of those willing to take the treatment from a shaman.

In an elegant wooden cabin nestled in the forest on Cape Town's outskirts, he is about to undergo his second psychedelic experience to treat a series of mental health issues he has been suffering from. He has tried prescription medication but is convinced psychedelics hold the key to his healing.

Mum passed away suddenly, so that was a hell of a thing. And then my ex broke off a year after mum died as well. So that's kind of when the rug got pulled out a little bit, says the 53-year-old.

At a cost of around $2,000 (£1,500), this psychedelic experience involves doses of psilocybin (also known as magic mushrooms) and MDMA (also known as ecstasy). The organisers say the fee includes accommodation and a package of support services.

Research is growing around the effectiveness of these substances in treating mental health conditions, but warnings exist about their use outside controlled, clinical environments.

Megan Hardy, who refers to herself as a medicine woman, administers the drugs along with a ritual. Despite being aware of the illegality of her actions, Hardy argues that this is a form of righteous civil disobedience.

The practice has gained traction as both public interest and clinical trials investigating the use of psychedelics for conditions like PTSD and anxiety expand. Yet many mental health professionals emphasize the dangers of unregulated therapies.

As Stuart undergoes the experience, a combination of calm and unexpected reactions emerge. While his journey leads him to seek greater self-awareness, the controversies surrounding safety and consent in such settings remain critical issues highlighted by professionals.