Development and optimization of a reliable HPLC-MS method for the identification of Tabernanthe iboga and its differentiation from toxic look-alikes
Planta Medica March 1, 2026 K Knížková, D Lovás, R Batelková et al.
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.