Calea Zacatechichi vs Hops

A Mesoamerican plant used by the Chontal Maya for dream enhancement and divinatory purposes; modern research suggests oneirogenic activity.

Hops are the female flowers of the hop plant, best known for their use in brewing beer but also valued medicinally for their sedative and calming properties. They have been used in European herbal medicine since at least the 9th century. The sedative effects are attributed to the degradation products of alpha acids.

Caleicines, Caleochromene, Flavonoids, Bitter sesquiterpene lactones

2-Methyl-3-buten-2-ol, Xanthohumol, Humulone, Lupulone, 8-Prenylnaringenin

Dream enhancement and divination, Fever and bitter digestive tonic, Appetite stimulant

Sleep aid, Anxiety relief, Digestive bitter, Appetite stimulant, Menstrual support

Oneirogenic – enhanced dream vividness, Sedative and anxiolytic, Digestive bitter tonic

Insomnia, Anxiety and restlessness, Menopausal symptoms, Digestive support, Tension headaches

2-6g dried herb as tea at bedtime

300-500mg extract daily, or 1-2 cups tea before bedtime

Not for long-term use, Avoid with psychiatric medications

Depression (may worsen), Hormone-sensitive conditions (estrogenic effects), Concurrent sedative medications

Nausea, Vomiting, Extreme bitterness

Drowsiness, Dizziness, GI upset, Allergic reactions, Depressive symptoms