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Calea zacatechichi may induce vivid dreams and better sleep, along with other reported benefits to memory, blood pressure, blood sugar, and inflammation. That said, more research in humans

is needed to make definitive conclusions about its effects. Calea zacatechichi, also known as Calea ternifolia, dream herb, and bitter grass, is a shrub that primarily grows in Mexico.

Historically, indigenous groups, including the Chontal Maya, have also used it for improved mental clarity and dream enhancement. Today, it’s a popular herb among people looking to induce

hallucinations or try lucid dreaming. Here’s what the research says about the so-called dream herb. What are the effects of the dream herb? Calea zacatechichi may have a range of effects on

your sleep and the quality of your dreams. Some reported effects on dreams include: * the ability to alter or control your dreams * more vivid, memorable, or longer dreams * an increase in

the dreams you experience and remember * a sense of deeper knowledge and understanding of your dreams That said, most of these effects are based on anecdotal reports. According to one 2022

literature review of research on the herb, a few studies did find that its effects can include vivid dreams. Calea zacatechichi may also help with sleep, which may be related to its other

reported therapeutic effects, such as helping with relaxation and improving mood. Because the results of older studies on humans and animals examining this have been mixed, a 2021 study

examined whether the herb could reduce anxiety in rats. The researchers found that there was an anti-anxiety effect at doses ranging from 0.5 to 50 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). However,

older research hasn’t seen the same effect, so more study is needed to confirm this. That said, while it’s logical to assume that lower anxiety might contribute to better sleep, the study

didn’t examine the herb’s effect on sleep directly. In addition, in the earlier-mentioned 2022 review, the researchers found that people who consumed or smoked the herb also experienced

superficial sleep stages and frequent awakenings, so it’s unclear whether the herb can actually improve or worsen sleep. More research is necessary on humans to verify these findings. DOES

IT CAUSE HALLUCINATIONS? There are anecdotal reports of intense, dream-like images shortly before falling asleep after taking this herb. That said, research has found that Calea zacatechichi

doesn’t produce the same chemical effect on the brain as hallucinogenic drugs like acid (LSD). What are the other benefits of Calea zacatechichi? Calea zacatechichi contains chlorogenic

acid, a type of phenolic acid and antioxidant that may help with attention, executive function, and memory in human subjects, including in older adults. This may be why some anecdotal

reports suggest that taking the herb before bed may help increase mental clarity and boost cognitive abilities, such as focus and improved reaction time. That said, these studies involved an

animal study, a chemical analysis of the herb, and just one human study involving only eight participants. This isn’t sufficient evidence to conclude that chlorogenic acid does indeed have

these effects. Other benefits associated with chlorogenic acid may include: * helping prevent heart problems like high blood pressure and blood clots * helping reduce the risk of high blood

sugar and diabetes * helping reduce inflammation * helping reduce gastrointestinal complaints in your gut That said, more human research examining the herb’s direct effects in these areas is

needed before any conclusion can be drawn. What are the side effects and risks of Calea zacatechichi? Research from 2019, comprising both animal and test tube studies, suggests that Calea

zacatechichi may be toxic to the liver and kidneys. Some older evidence also suggests that high doses of it can cause nausea or vomiting. While experts have found no evidence yet of specific

interactions between Calea zacatechichi and prescription or over-the-counter medications, this doesn’t mean the herb is safe to use with every medication. It simply means experts have yet

to find and document conclusive proof of any specific interactions. As a general rule, it’s best to check with your healthcare professional before trying any new herb or supplement,

especially if you have existing health concerns or take any kind of medication or supplement. This is especially true if you take: * MEDICATIONS TO LOWER BLOOD SUGAR: Older research looking

at its potential benefits for the treatment of diabetes does suggest this herb may lower blood sugar. If you take medications for this purpose, Calea zacatechichi could further lower your

blood sugar to unsafe levels. * BLOOD PRESSURE MEDICATIONS: The same goes for blood pressure medications, since using this herb can result in lowered blood pressure. * CERTAIN ANTI-ANXIETY

MEDICATIONS: If you take sedatives, tranquilizers, or any other medications intended to help produce a state of calm or relaxation, you may notice an increased effect when taking Calea

zacatechichi. > WHAT IS THE LEGAL STATUS OF CALEA ZACATECHICHI? >  > Calea zacatechichi is federally classified as an uncontrolled > substance in the United States. It’s not 

regulated by the Food and > Drug Administration (FDA). You can use it legally if you live in the > United States, except in the state of Louisiana, where its banned. >  > If 

you’re going to use it, make sure you find a reputable supplier > to avoid purchasing a contaminated product. Reach out to suppliers > to ask about how they source their herbs and test

 them for purity. > If they can’t give you a clear answer, it’s best to avoid them. >  > If you do decide to purchase it online, make sure to check the > ingredients and product 

description, as many products contain other > herbs as well. Also, if you’re pregnant or nursing, it’s especially important to talk with your healthcare professional before trying this

herb. You may also want to use caution when combining this herb with alcohol or other substances, including cannabis. In addition, an allergic reaction is also possible. Calea zacatechichi

belongs to the Asteraceae (or Compositae) plant family, so you could have an allergic reaction to this herb if you have allergies to: * ragweed * daisies * chrysanthemums * other plants in

this family The bottom line If you’re interested in lucid dreaming — or just having more vivid dreams that you can remember — you’re not alone. Plenty of people want to experience more

interesting or insightful dreams. Some people swear by using Calea zacatechichi for this purpose, but it’s important to remember that there’s not much research on this herb. Plus, it’s not

regulated by the FDA, so finding a quality product can be tricky. If you’re interested in trying it, be aware of its potential adverse effects and toxicity, especially if you have a chronic

health condition or take medication. Always ask your doctor before trying any herbal remedy.