Dreams have always been an intrinsic part of the human psyche. For many of us, by the time we awake, we have lost much of the details of our dreams. Luckily, there are plant helpers that can help bring vivid dreams. Let’s explore some of these plants.

Plants which can do this are called – oneirogenic, from the Greek word which means “to create dreams”. Some are hallucinogens, others just give you a buzz.

Why Dreams Matter

Dreams have long been recognised as the bringer of omens, gifts, or a reflection of inner challenges, and the list goes on. Western philosophers, like psychologist Carl Jung who experimented with psychedelics, had a lot to say about dreams. He believed dreams were based in the collective unconsciousness and archetypes of the culture.

Jung’s associate and the father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, based his dream analysis around ideas of sex, repression and aggression. His time as a cocaine user may have influenced his ideas.

In contrast, many of the oldest cultures around the world have used some type of plant to cross the bridge between worlds.

Once you pass through the portal to other realms you will have access to knowledge held there. It is the way elders learnt which plants to use in healing and which to avoid.

Many believe that when our body rests the consciousness connects with another side of reality. The dreams allow for communication with the ancestors, where guidance, portents for the future, and knowledge from the guardians of humanity can be received.

There are those who will dismiss this as old folk tales, however science has been using imitation plant medicine and continues to do so. The chemical mass produced versions often have many undesirable side effects

Plants As Dream Helpers

Respect and moderation should always be your guide. A plant helper is the keeper of wisdom, it waits until it is asked for help. Dreams can connect to places that are usually in the shadows of our psyche. That being the case, the seeker should have a clear intention and have done some preparation.

Nature knows your heart and bringing a plant into your energy space is a sacred act of connecting for mutual benefit. One thing I have learnt, it takes a lot to hold on the memory of a dream, that is why people are advised to keep a dream log if they are serious about recording their dreams.

This preamble is a necessary precursor to journeying with dreams, especially is modern societies that move with the speed of technology without the caution of wisdom.

The plants which enhance the ability to dream are many. Most are legal, some are rare and some can even be found by the wayside They are often hiding in plain sight, waiting for the opportunity to be of service.

The Dream Weavers

Here is a list of the plants which are known to be the best plant helpers for dreams. They are usually taken in the form of teas, tinctures, or smoked. Do your own research as to how you want to work with the plant, and decide what will be the best method to achieve the results your want.

Most of these plants do not give immediate results, but should be taken slowly with intention for a few days, again note which works best for your intentions.

Precautions

It goes without saying that one should consult with your healthcare professional before using any traditional herbs, especially if you are taking any medications, are pregnant, or have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Mugwort

Used since forever in Celtic and pagan rituals, Mugwort –Artemisia vulgaris is a go to herb for divination and dreamwork. Don’t be surprised to find it by the roadside. It seems to pop up everywhere and is considered an invasive plant in many areas.

Some people report immediate results while others take some tea over a period of days to get the desired effect.

The bioactive compounds which include thujone, make it slightly psychoactive. This enhances dream awareness and promotes the clarity and recall of dreams.

Valerian Root

The root of valerian – (Valeriana officinalis) has a long history in European pharmacopeia. It has a strong flavour. It is a muscle relaxant and this promotes an optimum dream state. A small amount will improve dream recall, you will dream longer and stronger. Note: it does have a potent smell.

Calea Zachatechi

This plant (Calea zacatechichi/ Calea terrifolia), is known as the “Mexican dream herb” and has a long been a part of indigenous Mexico’s traditional medicine, originating with the Chontal Indians of Oaxaca, Mexico. I can personally attest to the extreme bitter taste.

Consumed in tea or smoked, Calea will induce deep relaxation or vivid dreams. It is important to remember that when these plants were originally used, most were mixed with other plants, as some are today. It is not to be taken if one is allergic to members of the Asteraceae plant family.

Blue Lotus Flower

From the ancient Egyptians we learn that the Blue Lotus Flower-Nympheae caerulea was a sacred portal to other realms. From personal experience, I can say there definitely was a slight shift in perception, but the right dosage is important to hold the memory of dreams. Working with this plant would be ideal at a retreat, where meditating with it would be the focus for the day.

Passiflora

The Passiflora (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine with a strikingly beautiful aromatic flower. Documented research shows that this plant is a sleep enhancer, with sedative and calmative properties. The ability to reach a certain sleep level is for a necessary for a good dream experience.

Entada Rheedii

In African cultures, Entada Rheedii is used in ceremonies and rituals. This is a climbing vine belonging to the mimosa family. Entada Rheedii, is also known as cacoon vine in Jamaica, and sea bean, because of its ability to be carried by the sea for long distances and still thrive.

In subtropical Africa, its medicinal properties include; a topical ointment for jaundice, toothache, and an anti-inflammatory. Don’t be surprised to see the seed in necklaces from Africa and the Caribbean. To use, the seed is first dried, then the outer shell is broken and the inner flesh of the seed scooped out ground to a powder. It is traditionally smoked. It enhances intuition, and connects the experiencer to the ancestors.

Sinicuichi

A plant used in ceremonies by the Aztecs, Sinicuichi, Sun Opener (Heimia Salicifolia) is not easy to find in a non-GMO form. It is native to the Southern United States down through most of South America. If you do find it, try to work with an experienced ritual user.

It is usually prepared by crushing the leaves, and allowing them to ferment for a few days. This brew is known to give a yellow tinge to dreams, hence the name, Sun Opener. It brings clarity to past events and auditory perceptions outside the ordinary realms.

Preparation

Before engaging with the plants, there must be some preparation. Of course, we can just grab a plant and make tea, smoke or smell it, however, the result would probably be not as rich. Preparation also respects the ceremonial and ritual aspect of engaging with these plants and discourages recreational use.

State An Intention

There must be a beginning, by setting an intention, sharing that with the intended plant, and in the end, gratitude. This is a way to raise the vibrations of the experience, as it is considered a process of co creation between the person and the plant.

Final Thoughts

Our plant helpers are patient. They knew there would be a time when the knowledge would be forgotten, and they have waited patiently for the return to spirit.

You can find dream weavers here.