Herbs for Enhancing Dreams + Lucid Dream Cordial

Two glasses of lucid dreaming cordial sit in candlelight with ingredients around them

Imagine you are having a dream where you are soaring through the sky, swimming alongside ancient sea creatures, or revisiting distant memories all while actively participating and shifting the experience within the dream world. This experience is called lucid dreaming! Not only is it an exhilarating experience, but it can also foster creativity, provide emotional release, and help with problem-solving.

One way to dive deeper into lucid dreaming is by using natural tools, such as herbs, to enhance your dream state. Using some of my favorite herbal allies that support dreaming, I crafted a Lucid Dream Cordial that is flavorful and designed to support your journey into dream exploration. Crafted with ingredients like strawberries, figs, black currants, red wine, and a blend of herbs such as mugwort and valerian, this cordial is not only delicious but also a unique way to elevate your dream experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned lucid dreamer or just curious to try, this recipe is perfect for sharing with friends who want to explore their dreams in a meaningful and delightful way.

What Are Lucid Dreams?

Lucid dreaming occurs when you become conscious of the fact that you are dreaming, and with practice, you can actually learn to guide the direction of your dreams. This allows you to actively interact with the dream world and make intentional choices, whether it’s flying, solving challenges, or exploring deeper emotional states.

Many people are intrigued by the mystery of dreams—why do they happen, and what do they mean? Theories suggest that dreams may serve as a way to process suppressed emotions, reflect on the waking self, or even connect to different dimensions or past lives. Carl Jung, a prominent psychologist, believed dreams could help solve problems and uncover deeper aspects of the psyche.

Learning to recall and shape your dreams is a skill that takes time to develop. The MILD (Mnemonic Induction of Lucid Dreams) technique, created by Dr. Stephen LaBerge, is a popular method to get started. It involves setting the intention to remember your dreams and recognizing moments when you are dreaming. Over time, you can practice actively shaping your dreams. Keeping a dream journal by your bedside is also a simple and effective tool to enhance dream recall.

Lucid dreaming is not just about entertainment; it can also be a pathway to self-discovery, creativity, and emotional balance. It helps us tap into our subconscious mind and experiment with new ways of thinking or approaching challenges.

An overhead photo of bowls of dried herbs and fruit used in cordial recipe

Herbs for Enhancing Dreams

Herbs have long been used to support and deepen the dream state. The ingredients in the Lucid Dream Cordial recipe were chosen for their unique properties that can enhance relaxation, promote vivid dreams, and create a sense of calm before sleep.

  • Mugwort: Often referred to as the dream herb, mugwort has been used for centuries to enhance dream recall and clarity. Its subtle sedative effects make it a great choice for preparing the mind for lucid dreaming.
  • Rose: Known for its calming and pleasurable effects, rose promotes relaxation and a sense of love and contentment. 
  • Ginkgo Biloba: A brain-boosting herb, ginkgo biloba supports cognitive function and memory, making it easier to recall and process dreams.
  • Cedar: Cedar leaves are known for their grounding and protective qualities, which can help create a safe and peaceful environment for dreaming.
  • Cinnamon: Beyond its warm, comforting flavor, cinnamon has stimulating properties that can improve circulation and enhance sensory experiences.
  • Valerian: This calming herb is often used to reduce stress and promote a deep, restful sleep, setting the stage for lucid dreaming.

Together, these herbs create a synergistic blend to prepare both body and mind for an enhanced dream journey.

Red wine is poured into a copper pot, ready to heat with herbs and fruit


Lucid Dream Cordial Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pack of fresh strawberries
  • About 10 dried or fresh figs
  • 1 cup of dried or fresh black currants or blueberries
  • 4 bottles of red wine

Herbal Blend

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, add the herbs, fresh strawberries, figs, black currants, and red wine.
  2. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  4. Let it cook gently for about 1 hour to extract the flavors and benefits of the herbs and fruits.
  5. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
  6. Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer, squeezing out every last drop of goodness with your hands or a press.
  7. Return the strained liquid to the pot and gently heat it.
  8. Add honey to taste, stirring until it is fully dissolved.
  9. Let the mixture cool again before bottling it. To preserve your cordial, add 20% vodka or apple cider vinegar to the liquid. This will extend its shelf life and give it a slight tang (if using vinegar).
  10. Your cordial is now ready to enjoy! Sip a small amount before bedtime to enhance your dream state or share it with friends for a unique experience.


Customize Your Batch

Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste or desired potency. Smaller proportions can be made for personal use, while larger batches are great for sharing.

A stack of dried herbs in bowls with fresh strawberries and dried figs around it

 

Final Thoughts

Exploring lucid dreaming can be a transformative journey that inspires creativity, emotional growth, and personal insight. The Lucid Dream Cordial is a fun and flavorful way to support this practice while also bringing people together. Whether you’re savoring the elixir alone or with friends, it’s an invitation to dive deeper into the mysteries of the subconscious mind.

Dreams are a canvas where we can experiment, problem-solve, and connect with aspects of ourselves that might otherwise remain hidden. By embracing tools like this recipe and techniques like dream journaling or the MILD method, you can open the door to endless possibilities. So, take the time to prepare this special cordial, enjoy its soothing benefits, and let your dreams take flight!

Looking for More Herbal Dream Support?

Try This Herbal Tea Blend Recipe for Lucid Dreaming

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Mountain Rose Herbs PIN photo

 


Topics: Recipes, Herbalism, Herbalist Corner

Amanda Furbee- Guest Writer

Written by Amanda Furbee- Guest Writer on October 30, 2025

Amanda Furbee’s interest in herbalism began at an early age but it wasn’t until 2011, when she moved to the Pacific Northwest, that her relationship with medicinal plants blossomed. Ambitious to start learning, she found a golden opportunity working at Portland’s first all-organic herbal supplier, The Herb Shoppe. Inspired to take her knowledge even further, she enrolled in Rosemary Gladstar’s herbal certification course. Rosemary’s insights made it easy for Amanda to dive in headfirst, and Amanda absorbed all she could from the “Mother of Herbalism”. Amanda also learned from The Herb Shoppe’s informed herbalists and customers. Within a few months of being on staff, Amanda and the Herb Shoppe’s founder strategized the future of the company. As a result of their partnership, The Herb Shoppe Pharmacy and Learning Center opened its doors in 2014 with the intention of becoming a community space for educators and collaborators. A couple years later, Amanda would transition from partner to sole proprietor. Today, Amanda continues to broaden her understanding of herbalism and is available for one-on-one consultations and runs the full-service apothecary which you can find at theherbshoppepdx.com.


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