silene capensis. without a doubt.

recently manton hirst had assayed silene capensis, and it has been found that the active chemical is found in its saponins, is found to have ijncreased REM sleep. i have used it for 18 months or so, and it is the most benign and effective dream plant. it even increases the dream recall in people who smoke cannabis regularly. It has been reported, and i feel its right on too, that there is a subtle anti depressant quality to it. I've had regular success with treating a type of neuropathic pain with it as well. It does not interfere with waking day activities - meaning, you don't feel a 'buzz' or anything. Its just that when you fall asleep, the window of your mind wakes up. thats my 2 cents anyway.

from chinese herbs, Yuan Zhi (polygala tenufolium) is a strong hypnotic, and is useful on occasion.

From my experience:

Cat's Claw - more dreams, longer dreams, more vivid
Mugwort tea - colorful, crazy and surreal dreams
Calea - makes my sleep shallow and leaves me tired (sounds like a lucid dreaming aid :))

I'm going to try Silene right now :)

I find lavender to be very useful. A little bit of lavender solution on your pillow before bed-time. It seems to render a distinct difference in both the quality of rest and dream recall. I add lavender to a psylocybin tea mixture as well, to help open the crown chakra. Lavender to me is one of nature's most amazing gifts. I've always loved its fragrance, as far back as I can remember.

Gotta try Silene Capensis next. Seems interesting!