The most effective lucid dreaming supplement known to modern science is galantamine. This natural extract has become popular as a dream enhancer in the last few years due to its powerful effect on increasing the vividness of dreams, the recall of dreams, as well as the ability to become self-aware in the dream.

The Science Behind Galantamine

Galantamine is available commercially as a safe dietary supplement called galanthamine hydrobromide. The extract comes from a number of common plants including daffodils, the snowdrop plant, and the red spider lily. In fact, ancient Chinese and Classical Greek cultures knew about the memory-promoting effects of plants with this substance. For the last decade, this supplement is used in the fight against Alzheimer’s Disease for its ability to slow the decline of memory-loss. It was approved by the FDA in 2001.

The effects of galantamine are only temporary unfortunately; there is no proof that it can cure or stop Alzheimers.

It was relatively recently that modern science discovered how galantamine affects lucid dreaming consciousness. Dream researchers Stephen Laberge and Thomas Yuschak have independently confirmed that the use of galantamine can increase lucid dreams as well as elongate the state of sleep that lucid dreams most frequently appear.

How it works

Galantamine is a cholinesterase inhibitor. In the brain, the supplement slows the action of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that in turn dissolves the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. So it indirectly increases the levels of acetylcholine in the brain for a handful of hours after ingestion. High levels of acetylcholine are associated with higher memory function, a more robust REM sleep cycle, and increased dream vividness.

Side effects and Dangers of Galantamine

For as popular as this supplement has become as a dream supplement, it’s shocking how little information is available about its negative effects as well as its contraindications. For about 10% of people, gastro-intestinal problems occur when first taking this supplement. These symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

There are also medical issues that can be exacerbated by galantamine, including asthma, epilepsy, stomach ulcers, heart murmurs, and urinary tract problems.

Galantamine also can interfere with a few common prescription drugs, especially those with anticholinergic properties that cross the blood/brain barrier. These include atropine, benztropine (Cogentin), and trihexyphenidyl (Artane).

Also, note that to date there have been no published studies about the safeness of this supplement on pregnant women or nursing mothers. It is not recommended for children.

Finally, many do not know that you can overdose on this supplement, leading to the possibility of seizure and shock.

So, be careful when looking into this powerful mind supplement – it is not for everyone!

Safe and Smart Practices for the Lucid Dreaming Pill

All dream supplements are the most effective when paired with strong intentions and a mindfulness practice. This goes for galanthamine too. The pill should be taken in the middle of the night in order to for it to peak during the longer REM (dreaming sleep) sessions of the early morning.

An easy practice is to set the alarm, take the supplement, and then do 10-15 minutes of concentrative meditation or focusing. Also, reading for 15 minutes can promote the frontal lobe of the brain, making lucid dreams even more likely when you fall back asleep.

Pairing galantamine with brainfood like vitamin B5 and the amino acid choline can also increase the effectiveness of the supplement. Melatonin in low doses (3 mg or so) can also be a powerful aid for increasing dream recall and vividness.

Please note that this article should not be considered medical advice, but rather is for informational purposes only.