In brief
In Cape Town, self-appointed healers are using psychedelic substances like psilocybin and MDMA despite their illegality. A BBC report explores the experiences of patients seeking these treatments, such as Stuart Dods, who hopes to address mental health issues. While some advocates believe in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, mental health professionals warn of dangers in unregulated practices and the risks involved with consent during altered states.
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), the psychedelic experience he has chosen involves taking doses of psilocybin (also known as magic mushrooms) and MDMA (also known as the party drug, ecstasy). The organisers say the fee also includes accommodation and a package of support services.
There is a growing body of research and trials into their effectiveness in treating mental health conditions, but there are warnings about their use outside of controlled, clinical settings.
Megan Hardy, who refers to herself as a medicine woman and is in charge of the session with Mr Dods, also takes a smaller dose of both drugs ahead of the ritual. She claims it helps her move into the same frequencies as the person she is treating.
The shamanic term is a foot in each world, she says.
Ms Hardy is aware of the illegality of using these types of drugs, but she claims the use is righteous civil disobedience.
Before the psychedelic ceremony begins, which Stuart has agreed for the BBC World Service to film, Ms Hardy reassures her client he can stop at any time.
Greater awareness of mental health issues, coupled with a rise in clinical trials involving psychedelics, has fueled public interest in the use of these drugs to treat conditions like depression, anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
However, many in the professional world of psychiatry warn about the dangers of this unregulated industry. Dr. Marcelle Stastny, convenor of the South African Society of Psychiatrists, expressed concern over the ability to give consent while intoxicated.
The controversy extends beyond individual experiences; it reflects a larger conversation about the ethics, legality, and safety of psychedelics in therapeutic contexts, particularly outside clinical environments.
