Silene Capensis or African Dream Herb

Silene Capensis or African Dream Herb 5 g in a heat sealed foil bag

African dream root is an herb native to South Africa.

Traditionally, people used the plant’s roots to treat several health conditions. In addition, the Xhosa people of South Africa used the roots to stimulate vivid or lucid dreams, which they believed helped them communicate with their ancestors.

African dream root, also known as Silene undulata or Silene capensis, is a small perennial herb native to the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It typically grows in open forests and grasslands.

The Xhosa and Zulu peoples of South Africa prize the roots of this plant. People have long used African dream root to treat various health conditions, such as fevers and delirium (1, 2).

The Xhosa people refer to the plant as “undlela zimhlophe,” which means “the way or path of white things or symbols” (2).

Research suggests that the vivid or lucid dream-inducing properties of African dream root come from compounds called saponins that are present in the root (2).

You can buy African dream root in three main forms: the root on its own, a powder made from the ground-up root, and capsules containing the root powder.

The roots of African dream root contain compounds called triterpene saponins. Researchers believe these compounds help stimulate vivid or lucid dreams in people who are sensitive to the effects of the compounds (2).

Saponins are plant-based chemicals that get their name because they form a soap-like foam in water. Studies have linked saponins to various health benefits, such as antioxidant properties, reducing inflammation, and lowering cholesterol levels.
Alkaloids and diterpenoids in the root of the plant may also play a role in its psychoactive properties.

African dream root is best known for its ability to stimulate vivid or lucid dreams.

Researchers believe this effect is due to compounds called triterpenoid saponins. These saponins form a foam-like substance if you mix them vigorously in water. Traditionally, people would drink this foam, which would stimulate vivid or lucid dreams.

However, the vivid or lucid dream experiences people have reported after taking African dream roots are anecdotal. There’s currently no research that explains how African dream roots may produce these effects.

Because there’s a lack of research on the safety and side effects of taking African dream root, it’s difficult to analyze the potential downsides of consuming the plant.

However, the African dream root plant contains saponins, which form a foam-like substance when mixed with water. If you consume them in excess, saponins may irritate the lining of your digestive tract and cause vomiting (2).

In addition, people who have taken doses of African dream root that were larger than the typical amount have reported experiencing disturbing or confusing dreams.

Basically decide for yourself. I haven't personally tried this. I've tried Blue Lotus and Calea Zacatechichi and these both work well for me.