Development and optimization of a reliable HPLC-MS method for the identification of Tabernanthe iboga and its differentiation from toxic look-alikes
K Knížková, D Lovás, R Batelková, Petra Cihlářová, Martin Kuchař
Planta Medica March 1, 2026 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1815315 via OpenAlex
Summary
The plant Tabernanthe iboga contains ibogaine, an alkaloid that helps treat addiction by easing withdrawal and reducing cravings. Because authentic T. iboga from Africa is scarce, other plants with potentially toxic alkaloids are sometimes substituted, leading to fatal overdoses. This study developed an HPLC-MS method to analyze 11 iboga alkaloids and their derivatives, testing different extraction solvents; ethyl acetate with ammonium hydroxide worked best. Real samples from ibogaine clinics were analyzed to assess quality control and risks. The method aims to distinguish T. iboga from plants that might be used to falsify it, improving safety.
Study at a glance
| Design | method development and validation study |
|---|---|
| Key finding | An HPLC-MS method using ethyl acetate with ammonium hydroxide as extraction solvent can differentiate Tabernanthe iboga from plants that may be used to falsify it based on alkaloid profiles. |
Abstract
Tabernanthe iboga is a plant containing a broad spectrum of alkaloids, the most significant of which is ibogaine. This alkaloid has been proven effective in the treatment of addiction to various substances, as it alleviates withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings. Due to these properties, ibogaine clinics have emerged worldwide, incorporating ibogaine into treatment programs. [ 1 ] [ 2 ] However, the limited availability of authentic T. iboga from Africa has led to substitution with other plant species that may contain toxic alkaloids. Reports of fatal cases resulting from such falsification of T. iboga , as well as issues related to improper dosing, highlight the need for accurate identification methods. [ 3 ] [ 4 ] The aim of this study is to enable the differentiation of T. iboga from other plants with a high risk of falsification based on their alkaloid profiles, thereby increasing the safety of T. iboga use. In this study, an HPLC-MS method for the analysis of 11 iboga alkaloids and their derivatives was developed. Various extraction solvents were tested, with ethyl acetate combined with ammonium hydroxide proving to be the most effective. Real samples from ibogaine clinics were obtained and analysed and the quality control and risks associated with these products were assessed. Publication History Article published online: 05 March 2026 © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany