The venom of the Sonoran Desert toad, a potent psychedelic substance known as 5-MeO-DMT or the "God Molecule," has gained a following among celebrities and public figures seeking profound experiences. This trend was significantly propelled by Octavio Rettig Hinojosa, a former addict who styled himself as a shaman and evangelized the practice.
The toad's venom, when vaporized and smoked, is said to induce "ego death" and a temporary loss of identity. Its use was popularized by Hinojosa, who presented it as an ancient remedy. Notable figures who have publicly discussed their experiences include Hunter Biden, who wrote in his memoir that it helped him abstain from cocaine for a year, and former Navy SEAL Robert O'Neill, who used it to treat PTSD. Mike Tyson also shared on "The Joe Rogan Experience" that the experience was akin to "dying and being reborn."
Hinojosa's journey with 5-MeO-DMT began after a fellow student convinced him it could help cure his cocaine addiction. This experience inspired him to become an advocate for the toad venom. He later introduced the practice to a methamphetamine-affected tribe in Northern Mexico, earning the moniker "el doctor sapo"—the toad doctor—due to his apparent success.
His profile rose significantly after being coached by TEDx organizer Klaudia Oliver, leading to speaking engagements and appearances at events like the Burning Man Festival in 2013, where he promoted the toad medicine. Hinojosa combined neo-shamanic practices with Seri traditions, often dressing in ceremonial attire and performing rituals.
However, Hinojosa's methods drew criticism and controversy. Reports emerged of alleged mistreatment of clients, including shouting at them, engaging in relationships with them, and in one instance, allegedly kicking and slapping a client. Videos also reportedly surfaced showing him pouring water down a comatose client's throat and using a Taser-like device. Hinojosa defended these actions as necessary to push past psychological resistance.
Concerns escalated as at least four deaths were rumored to have occurred during his sessions. Hinojosa was arrested by Mexican police in connection with a death but was never convicted and has denied wrongdoing, stating his work has been misunderstood. The Seri tribe eventually disavowed him, and an activist from the Yaqui tribe described him as a "fake."
Despite the controversies surrounding its early evangelist, 5-MeO-DMT has gained scientific attention. Researchers have begun clinical trials exploring its potential for mental health and addiction treatment, marking what the book "The Ego Trip" by Kimon de Greef describes as the beginning of the "pharmaceutical era of toad medicine." Hinojosa continues to operate healing retreats in northwest Mexico.