Mexican actress Marcela Alcázar Rodríguez has died after she consumed poisonous Amazonian frog venom during a spiritual retreat.
33-year-old Rodríguez took some of the poison as part of a “spiritual cleansing” ritual.
Some South American natives have used the deadly amphibian venom for “toxic cleansing,” according to local reports.
Rodríguez consumed the venom at a retreat in Mexico.
After taking the poison, she suffered severe vomiting while being denied medical treatment, a report said.
She died on December 1 after ingesting Kambo.
Kambo is a gluey, poisonous substance produced on the skin of the Amazon’s giant monkey frog.
When used as a traditional medicine by indigenous tribes of South America, a patient’s skin is gently burned and the toxin is then applied to the wound.
It causes immediate and severe short-term symptoms including projectile vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and a swollen face.
Supporters claim that it can cure everything from anxiety to migraines if you’re willing to endure hours of pain.
However, its use also carries major risks including hospitalization and, in some cases, death.
Unfortunately, Rodríguez started throwing up and had severe diarrhea after taking the poison during a “toxin cleansing” ritual in Durango
She was initially denied medical attention by the retreat, according to local reports.
However, she was finally being taken to a Red Cross hospital when her condition worsened, witnesses said.
Unfortunately, she died after arriving at the hospital.
Mexican production company Mapache Films confirmed the death, saying she was a “beloved colleague and friend.”
In a social media post, the production company wrote:
“With deep regret, we mourn the death of our beloved colleague and friend, Marcela Alcázar Rodríguez.
“Her passing left an immense emptiness in our hearts and in our professional community.
“Her dedication, joy, and commitment left a profound mark on all of us who had the privilege of working beside her.”
Kambo is a South American healing ritual that incorporates the poisonous secretions of a frog, according to Healthline.
“The frog secretes the substance as a defense mechanism to kill or subdue animals that try to eat it,” the outlet said.
“Some humans, on the other hand, apply the substance to their body for its alleged health benefits.
Police are investigating a shaman’s involvement in the incident.
