Octavio Rettig Hinojosa

Track: Shamanism and Its Potential for Modern Man

OTAC: Toad Medicine and its Role in Modern World

Otac, the Seri Comcáac word for toad, has been adopted as a term for the gland secretions of Bufo Alvarius, the Sonoran Desert Toad of Mexico. Bufo Alvarius is the only known toad species whose glands contain the neurotransmitting molecule bufotenine, 5-MeO-DMT and the enzyme capable of methylating it – unique properties in a very singular animal. By inhaling the vapour of Bufo Alvarius the effect on neural receptors is immediate. The presentation will offer findings from the archeological research done one ancient use of the toad medicine, as well as its therapeutic potential based on the experience from thousands of session conducted world-wide.
Archeological evidence suggests that Bufo Alvarius can be a forgotten sacrament that was revered by the Olmecs, Mayans & Aztecs. It is proposed that it could serve as a technique, but also had significant role as a trigger for human development.

Otac has the capacity to powerfully transform an individual’s mental and physical health, enhancing their wellbeing and perceived reality. More than a medicine, Otac offers insight to those who have searched for purpose in what is all too often perceived to be a meaningless world. Contrary to mainstream addiction treatments, Otac allows for an essential unification between the medical & the sacred arena, and consequently offers viable alternatives to the current destructive habits of humanity.

Althought not proved by the rigorous clinical trials yet, the observed treatment results from extensive practice and hudreds of testimonials gathered from the sessions participants have been extremely encouraging.
Sharing historical & experiential evidence, talk will offer a practical message of hope for the future of human kind. The development of safe practice, inclusive of preparation, administration & integration; as well as the essential need to ensure conservation and sustainability acts, are paramount to those working towards the world recognition of Otac and other natural medicines.

Dr. Rettig, originally physician, has conducted more than 6000 sessions with the natural substances containing powerfull psychedelic compound 5-Meo-DMT (Bufo alvarius toad, yopo), to assist people in recovering from variety of mental health problems. He received his medical degree at the University of Guadalajara, Mexico. After discovering the secretion of Bufo alvarius healing properties, he reintroduced this tool to the Seri tribe of Sonora desert, where the toad lives. By years he developed a unique medicinal neoshamanic fusion to work with this substance.
For his work he was authorized by indigenous authorities from Sonora desert, and Piaroa community in Venezuela. He is also a member of the Active Reserve of the United Nations Venezuela Association, by which his work is officialy protected internationally by the Declaration of the United Nations on the rights of indigenous people. He does research on ancient use of those medicines and their therapeutic potential, and promotes their responsible use. His professional goal is to facilitate the world recognition of their potential. He is the author of the book The Toad of Dawn, 5-MeO-DMT and the Rise of Cosmic Consciousness.