In South Africa, particularly in Cape Town, a growing number of self-proclaimed healers and shamans are openly offering treatments that involve psychedelic drugs, despite their illegal status. Conviction for commercial use can lead to hefty fines, lengthy prison sentences, or both.
Stuart Dods, a 53-year-old photographer, is one individual seeking treatment for mental health issues through these unconventional methods. Having found little success with prescription medication, he believes psychedelics, specifically psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms) and MDMA, offer a path to healing. His chosen experience costs around $2,000 (£1,500) and includes accommodation and support services.
While research into the efficacy of psychedelics for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD is expanding, experts warn against their use outside of controlled clinical settings. Globally, approximately one in two people may face a mental health disorder at some point in their lives, making the search for effective treatments a significant concern.
Megan Hardy, who identifies as a “medicine woman” and guided Mr. Dods’s session, also consumes smaller doses of these substances to align herself with her clients. She refers to this practice as having “a foot in each world” and views the illegal use of these drugs as “righteous civil disobedience.” Hardy claims her expertise comes from years of self-experimentation, allowing her to understand what works in different situations. Notably, neither she nor her colleague, Kate Ferguson, possess formal medical training.
During the ceremony, which was filmed by the BBC World Service, Mr. Dods underwent an experience that involved shifts between calm and involuntary movements. Ms. Hardy provided support, encouraging him to embrace the sensations. Her colleague, who also micro-dosed, was present as well.
Concerns have been raised by professionals in the psychiatric community regarding the lack of regulation and the potential for compromised consent. Dr. Marcelle Stastny, convenor of the South African Society of Psychiatrists, highlighted the danger of administering substances like psilocybin and MDMA to individuals not in a sober state, pointing out that “real boundary violations are happening” in many trials worldwide.
Ms. Hardy defended her approach, stating that the notion of a “sober state of mind” being superior is a Western perspective that might not apply to their practices. She believes psychedelics hold the potential to “heal the world” and expresses skepticism towards the Western medical establishment.
The article also touches upon the growing body of research supporting psychedelics as alternative treatments for various conditions. A 2022 study involving psilocybin demonstrated improvements in depression symptoms when administered with professional psychological support. However, a 2025 European Medicines Agency review suggested a need for more clinical evidence before approval, emphasizing the importance of controlled environments due to potential side effects like increased heart rate and anxiety.
The article recounts cautionary tales, including that of Sonette Hill, who moved away from administering psychedelic drugs after a client had a severe adverse reaction. It also details the tragic death of Milo Martinovic, who passed away after receiving Ibogaine at an unregistered facility, a fatal mix-up due to his Xanax addiction. Dr. Anwar Jeewa, the dentist involved, was later found guilty of culpable homicide.
Dr. Stastny warns about the burgeoning online market of self-proclaimed healers, noting that while some genuinely want to help, others may exhibit narcissistic tendencies, believing they can outperform psychiatrists.
Despite the risks and legal implications, the demand for psychedelic-assisted healing continues to grow in South Africa, fueled by increased awareness of mental health issues and ongoing research into these substances.
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