Dreams are said to be important guides in many African tribes, messages from the ancestors to help with healing and decision making. Plants have been used worldwide for thousands of years by diviners and shaman to induce states of lucid dreaming in order to receive divination messages. Such sacred plants are classified as oneirogens, from the Greek oneiros meaning dream, and gen meaning to create.

While dream therapy is becoming more popular, the fear of recurring nightmares may dissuade people who have suffered great trauma from wanting to recall their dreams. It is generally believed that through the ability to access lucid dreaming, nightmares can be redirected and traumas may be overcome.

Many of the African oneirogens are being tested for efficacy in treating Alzheimer’s, Parkinsons, depression, dementia.

It is important to note that some people simply stop recalling their dreams at all when they start using Silene undulata or any other dream herbs. It is not fully understood why this happens, but often, these people will begin experiencing lucid dreams when they stop taking the dream root.