A spiritual cleansing had a fatal result. On Dec. 1, Marcela Alcázar RodrĂguez died after she ingested kambo, a poisonous substance on the skin of the Amazonian giant monkey frog, local outlets reported. She was 33.
Per the outlets, RodrĂguez was attending a retreat in Durango, Mexico, as part of her Healer Training Diploma. After ingesting the substance, RodrĂguez began vomiting and having diarrhea.
RodrĂguez asked for help when she became ill, but was denied permission to leave the retreat, the outlets claimed. RodrĂguez’s friend eventually took her to the local Red Cross, where she later died.
Healthline describes kambo as a South American healing ritual. Though the giant monkey frog secretes the substance as a defense mechanism, humans have been known to apply the substance to their bodies for supposed health benefits.
During the ritual, people burn themselves until they blister. After the blister is scraped off, the substance is applied to the skin.
Authorities are searching for the shaman who led the retreat, the outlets reported.
Mapache Films, a production company for whom RodrĂguez worked, paid tribute to the late actress on Instagram.
“We regret the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Marcela Alcázar RodrĂguez,” the company wrote in Spanish. “Her passing leaves an immense void in our hearts and in our work community. Her dedication, joy and commitment left a deep mark on all of us who had the privilege of working alongside her.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones,” the tribute concluded. “We will always remember you with love and gratitude.”
