South Africa's shamans: The unregulated use of psychedelics in mental health treatment

Business for unregulated healers appears to be thriving in Cape Town, but there are dangers.

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Anyone convicted of their commercial use faces a fine, a prison sentence of up to 25 years, or both.

Photographer Stuart Dods is one of those willing to take the treatment from a shaman.

In an elegant wooden cabin nestled in the forest on Cape Town's outskirts, he is about to undergo his second psychedelic experience to treat a series of mental health issues he has been suffering from. He has tried prescription medication but is convinced psychedelics hold the key to his healing.

"Mum passed away suddenly, so that was a hell of a thing. And then my ex broke off a year after mum died as well. So that's kind of when the rug got pulled out a little bit," says the 53-year-old.