Traditionally grown in Mexico, calea zacatechichi is a very bitter psychoactive plant used in dream work. Like mugwort, but in my opinion more powerful, it can induce vivid, sometimes lucid dreams. One thing calea is very good at is dream recall; especially useful if you have trouble remembering dreams. I included it here as a communication tool since many of us find that spirits and ancestors come to us in dreams. As part of an ancestral ritual, you might work the rest of you ritual and use the tincture that evening to facilitate connection through dreams. I find it best to set an intention. For example, you might recite a short prayer or message to the ancestor or spirit that you want to dream of prior to using, asking them to come to you in your dreams to help you solve a problem. A couple of things to know about taking this tincture:

• You may experience nightmares. This isn’t the typical experience but any time we use psychoactive dream herbs, they can trigger intense dream experiences.

• It is bitter and I’ve read reports that drinking the tea can cause nausea. This isn’t as likely with a tincture but you should be aware that some people cannot tolerate the taste.

• This is an occasional-use medicinal tincture. You can safely use it a few nights in a row but extended use should be avoided.

• It works best as the REM cycle is occurring so many users choose to use it after waking during the night rather than taking it before bed. I find it works for me either way, but if you try it before sleep and see no effects, you may decide to take it after sleeping for a few hours.

• Dosage varies from person to person and after some use you’ll find your ‘sweet spot’. Start with 1-3 droppers and evaluate your experience.

• It can make you drowsy so use common sense around the times that you ingest.

• It may not work for you. Some people don’t react to mugwort and that’s true of this herb too. If you take it and see no effects, try a larger dose next time. Again, common sense is the rule here.

• If you hate the taste, try it with a small amount of water or juice. You can also mix it with a little honey.

This purchase is for one 1-oz glass dropper bottle of Calea Zacatechichi tincture.

I offer no medical advice and before taking any herbal preparation, you should do your own research and speak to your physician.