African Dream Root, Cut Herb (Silene Capensis)

Description ShareTweetPinLinkedInPrintEmail African Dream Root, Cut Herb (Silene Capensis), 1 ounce COMMON NAME :  African Dream Root SCIENTIFIC NAME :  Silene Capensis OTHER NAMES :  Ubulawu, Xhosa Dream Herb, Silene, Undlela Zimhlophe, Catchfly, Silene Undulata FAMILY :  Caryophyllaceae SPIRITUAL / METAPHYSICAL ASSOCIATIONS and CORRESPONDENCES: Element: Air Planet: Neptune Direction: East Zodiac Sign: Pisces Chakra: 6th Third Eye Chakra Tarot: the High Priestess Energy: Yin Gender: Feminine Candle Color: Purple, Yellow Spirit Animal:  Dog Sabbat / Holiday:  Samhain (October 31 – November 1) Deity or God / Goddess Association: Morpheus, Hypnos   Parts Used:  Root Description:   The Xhosa and Zulu peoples of South Africa prize the roots of this plant. The Xhosa people refer to the plant as “undlela zimhlophe”, which means “the way or path of white things or symbols”. These tribes used the root to gain access to the spiritual world through lucid dreams, as well as the ability to communicate with their ancestors. It has been used by diviners and shamans to induce prophetic states of lucid dreaming. It is said that in these dreams, there is awareness of being in the spiritual realm and the ability to control your actions. Research suggests that the vivid or lucid dream-inducing properties of African Dream Root come from compounds called triterpene saponins that are present in the root. Alkaloids and diterpenoids in the root may also play a role in its psychoactive properties. When mixed vigorously with water, the saponins form a foam-like substance. Traditionally, people would drink this foam, which would stimulate vivid or lucid dreams. Sometimes, the root is soaked in water overnight, and on the next day, the foam (called “Ubulawu”) is consumed. Its effects with daily consumption are said to take between 3 to 7 days. People have long used African Dream Root to treat various health conditions, such as fevers and delirium. Mystical Intentions:  dream magic, lucid dreaming, communicating with ancestor spirits, divination, prophecy Taste & Smell:   African Dream Root is extremely bitter and is said to taste much like a peanut shell. When mixed with water, it is described as having a woody taste. Botany, Cultivation & Harvesting:  African Dream Root is a small perennial herb from the carnation family that is native to the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The plant typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall, producing multiple elongated stalks crowned by pure white flowers that smell like jasmine and clove. African Dream Root is easy to grow, spreading healthily but not invasively. However, it may become weedy and if unmanaged, may crowd out other plants. It typically grows in open forests, grasslands, curbside, and rock gardens up to 20-60 cm in height. Flowers bloom from January – April, and October – December. When in bloom, it attracts butterflies, bees, and nocturnal moths. The plant does not do well in hot, humid climates. Most prefer temperatures between 50° to 75° Fahrenheit. When temperatures drop, flowering may slow or stop. Over the winter, annual plants will die and perennial plants will go dormant. In some regions, aphids and slugs can be problematic. Although, the plant is deer resistant. Seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.5 cm at about 6 to 18 inches apart in full sun and fast-draining soil. African Dream Root does not require fertilizer. But you can add a little compost when planting, dividing, or transplanting…or add some granulated fertilizer at the beginning of blooming season. Sow the seed directly in the garden in the spring (about 3 weeks before the last frost) or any time in the greenhouse. Moisten and loosen the top several inches of soil and gently press in the seed. Do not cover them, as they need sunlight for germination. Keep the seeds evenly moist (but not wet) and warm until germination. Germination time is 1-4 weeks at 18-24°C. New plants require supplemental water while getting established, but just enough to keep moist. Otherwise, it is drought tolerant, so allow the soil to dry between waterings. Thin or transplant to about 6-12 inches apart. It is best to wait 2 years before harvesting the root. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. In the fall, cut faded flower heads down to the ground and compost dead stems. The plant should be replaced every few years, as they decrease flower production with age. It can also be re-potted or divided in late fall or early spring every 2-3 years. Contraindications & Toxicity: Use may irritate the lining of the digestive tract and cause vomiting. Internal use may cause disturbing or confusing dreams. Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Drinking African Dream Root water/foam may cause nausea. May cause a more heightened and slower thinking concentrated waking mood.   Constituents:  Triterpenoid Saponins     Sources: https://spiritartsandherbs.com/sources **IMPORTANT INFORMATON: Products are sold as curio items for entertainment purposes only and based upon historical and magical uses.  We do not imply or guarantee that any items provide specific abilities, powers, outcomes, remedies, or treatments. Any information provided on listings or through private conversation is intended for educational purposes only and are based on historical folklore and traditions, and should not replace the advice of a physician. Use our products at your own risk. By purchasing this item, you understand and release Spirit Arts & Herbs Inc from any liability. No items we sell are for internal use and should never be ingested for any reason. Some may also not be safe for topical application, or even be safe to touch while unprotected. Always use proper safety precautions when using our products. We will not be held responsible for illness, injury, or death from the use of any product. PRODUCT IS NOT A TREATMENT. This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. It is not a supplement or vitamin, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or any type of physical dysfunction or mental/emotional concern. Descriptions include HISTORICAL uses only, and do not imply fitness or safety for current use, or effectiveness in any way.  CAUTION : Do not use ANY product if pregnant or nursing. Do not use if allergic to any ingredients. Prior to use, consult with your professional health-care provider to ensure safe use and understand effects that ingredients may cause relative to safety, personal conditions, and medication interactions which may be harmful. FOR ADULT USE ONLY. By purchasing, you confirm that you are over 18 years of age. Keep out of reach of children and pets. 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