Calea zacatechichi

Botanical

What is it

Calea zacatechichi (dream herb, leaf of god) is a Mexican plant traditionally used by the Chontal people for divinatory dreams and to enhance dream recall. It has stimulant and dream-modifying effects when smoked or brewed.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Dream recall / lucid dreaming

Mixed Evidence

Small studies and case reports suggest mild enhancement of dream recall. Evidence is limited and variable.

How it works

Calea contains sesquiterpene lactones (caleicines, caleines), flavonoids, and other compounds. Limited human research suggests it can increase the number of dream-recall awakenings during sleep and shorten sleep latency in some users, though without dramatically changing REM architecture. Effects are mild and unpredictable. Traditional preparation is as a tea before sleep.

Dosage

No standardized dose. Traditional tea uses a few grams of dried leaves. Effects are variable and dose-response is not characterized.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken as a tea shortly before sleep.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried leaf / tincture / smoking blend

Available from ethnobotanical suppliers; legal status varies by jurisdiction.

Variable; oral and inhaled use both reported.

Safety

Acute use is generally tolerated; some users report nausea, hallucinations, or unpleasant dreams. Long-term safety is unknown. Bitter taste limits casual use. Not regulated as a medication.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid if you have a history of psychotic disorders or sleep disturbances. Avoid driving or operating machinery after use.

Interactions

Limited data. Avoid combining with sedatives or psychoactive medications.

Food sources

Not a food source

Amount
N/A
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Does Calea zacatechichi actually cause lucid dreams?⌄

Some users report enhanced dream vividness or recall. Controlled evidence is limited, and effects vary widely between individuals.

References

Calea zacatechichi on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Calea zacatechichi on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Calea zacatechichi (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.