Dream herbs are plants that people have used for centuries to change how the brain works, induce altered states of consciousness, and enhance dreaming. Cultures worldwide have used them to better understand their dreams and enter trance states.
In modern Western culture, there’s been a surge of interest in dream herbs. People are looking for natural sleep aids and ways to explore their inner selves.
This article will explore the benefits, types, and uses of dream herbs. It will also discuss the importance of using them responsibly and understanding their cultural context. It will also cover the reasons why some people take these herbs.
What are dream herbs, and how do they work?
Dream herbs are plants that people use to change brain function, induce altered states of consciousness, and enhance dreaming. You may also hear them called oneirogens.
Historical and cultural significance
People have used dream herbs for thousands of years. Shamans used them for healing, divination, and spiritual guidance. Cultures like the Xhosa people of South Africa use them to induce visionary experiences.
How they work
Dream herbs affect neurotransmitter activity in the brain. Some may affect REM sleep, dream recall, and the vividness of your dreams.
Why would you want to use dream herbs?
People use dream herbs for a variety of reasons, and research is ongoing to determine how and why they work, similar to Ayurvedic Herbs for Grief in healing the heart naturally.
- To remember their dreams better. Some herbs may help you remember your dreams more clearly. Some people report that these herbs can also make their dreams more vivid.
- To lucid dream. Lucid dreaming is when you become aware that you’re dreaming. Some people believe that dream herbs can help you have these experiences and even control your dreams.
- To relax and sleep better. Some herbs, like Ashwagandha & Magnesium Supplements, have calming effects that may reduce stress and anxiety, improve your sleep quality, and even reduce insomnia.
- To explore their subconscious mind. Some dream herbs may give you access to memories and emotions that are buried deep inside. People may find this useful for self-discovery and personal growth.
Popular Dream Herbs: A Detailed Look
For centuries, people have turned to herbs to enhance their dream experiences. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular options:
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
Mugwort has been used for centuries to make dreams more vivid and easier to remember. You can drink mugwort as a tea, smoke it, or use it in incense.
Mugwort is known for helping people achieve lucid dreaming, where you become aware that you’re dreaming. It can also make your dreams more intense and memorable.
Silene Capensis (African Dream Root)
The Xhosa people have traditionally used Silene Capensis to connect with their ancestors and explore the spiritual realm.
People who use Silene Capensis often report having prophetic dreams that feel very real. A 2008 study showed that Silene capensis significantly increased dreaming in the study participants.
Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)
Ancient Egyptians used blue lotus in spiritual rituals.
Blue lotus is known for promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being. It can also make your dreams more vivid and help you achieve lucidity.
Calea Zacatechichi (Dream Herb)
The Zoque Popoluca people in Mexico have traditionally used Calea Zacatechichi for divination and lucid dreaming.
This herb is known for its ability to help you remember your dreams and make them clearer, but are the 5 dream herb benefits of Calea Zacatechichi right for you? Some people find that Calea Zacatechichi results in unsettling dreams.
Other Notable Herbs
- Lavender: Lavender promotes relaxation. Try adding it to a foot bath or spraying it in your room before bed to encourage more vivid dreams.
- Chamomile: Chamomile is a relaxing bedtime drink that can help with dreamwork.
Dream herbs in dreamwork and therapy
Dreamwork is a type of therapy that helps you find meaning in your dreams. It’s different from dream interpretation, where someone else tells you what your dream means. Dreamwork is about you discovering the meaning for yourself.
So, where do dream herbs come in? Well, some people find that certain herbs can make their dreams more vivid and easier to remember. This can be super helpful in dreamwork, because the more you remember, the more you have to work with!
Some of the most common herbs people use for dreamwork are:
- Mugwort
- Chamomile
- Lavender
- Valerian
For example, some people add valerian to their bedtime tea or take it on its own, hoping it will help them sleep deeply and have lucid dreams.
How to use dream herbs safely and effectively
Ready to dip your toes into the world of dream herbs? Here’s what you need to know to do it safely and get the most out of it:
- Do your homework. Learn as much as you can about the specific herb you plan to use and what it does.
- Dosage and Preparation. Start with a low dose and increase it gradually if needed. You can ingest dream herbs orally (as a tea, for example), smoke them, sniff them, or burn them.
- Know the side effects. Be aware of any side effects and interactions with medications you’re taking. Some herbs can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
- Talk to your doctor. Before using herbal supplements, talk with a qualified healthcare provider to be sure they’re safe for you.
- Be responsible. Avoid using dream herbs if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any underlying health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What herb makes you dream?
Several herbs are traditionally associated with enhancing dream experiences. Calea zacatechichi, also known as the “dream herb,” is often cited for its potential to increase dream vividness and recall. Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is another popular choice, believed to promote lucid dreaming. Other herbs sometimes used for dream enhancement include valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) and passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), although their effects may be more related to promoting relaxation and sleep quality, which can indirectly influence dream experiences.
Is Calea zacatechichi legal in the US?
Yes, Calea zacatechichi is legal in the United States. It is not a controlled substance at the federal level. However, it’s always prudent to check local and state regulations, as laws can vary. While legal, it’s essential to source Calea zacatechichi from reputable suppliers and to be aware of potential side effects or interactions with medications.
What plant gives you vivid dreams?
While individual responses vary, Calea zacatechichi is most frequently reported to produce vivid dreams. Users often describe experiencing more intense, memorable, and sometimes even bizarre dreamscapes after consuming this herb. Other plants known for dream-enhancing properties, such as mugwort, may also contribute to more vivid dream experiences, though the effects might be less pronounced or consistent compared to Calea zacatechichi. Personal experimentation and careful observation are key to determining which plants best promote vivid dreaming for you.
Summary
Dream herbs are a natural way to potentially boost your dreaming life, help you relax, and maybe even peek into your subconscious mind. Some people use them to try to achieve lucid dreaming, while others simply enjoy the reported calming effects some herbs can have.
It’s super important to be safe and responsible when experimenting with any new herb. Do your research, start with very small amounts, and talk to a healthcare professional before you begin, especially if you take other medications or have underlying health conditions.
Dream herbs might be a useful addition to your self-discovery and spiritual growth toolkit. However, they should be used respectfully and with intention. Always listen to your body and adjust your usage as needed.