The transiting Sun happens to be in conjunct with my natal Neptune, and my dreams have been extremely vivid as of late. This is undoubtedly thanks to a recent inclusion of the Neptunian herb “sacred blue lotus” into my nightly routine.

Before I get into the recipe, let’s talk about Neptune, who holds the higher octave of Venus (a planet I am currently studying in terms of fashion/style). Neptune is an archetypal symbol for the oceanic consciousness, in which we can delve into, immerse ourselves, and resurface with beauty and wisdom from the depths of the collective consciousness and realms otherwise difficult to access in waking modern life. From the primordial ooze of awareness and creativity, we can experience immense inspiration and clarity. With such a high potential for lucidity comes an equal propensity towards illusion. Neptune can wash away boundaries, and with it, our grip on self control and reality.

Like the moon, Neptune also rules over our internal waters. Our extracellular and intracellular fluids acts as the medium for our body’s messengers, known as hormones (from the Greek word hormon, which means “that which sets in motion”). Melatonin, a hormone crucial for “setting in motion” a healthy sleep cycle and rich dream life, originates mostly from the pineal gland. For healthy pineal gland function, the hypothalamus gland, found near the heart, must also thrive.

Nymphaea caerulea, also known as “sacred water lily” or “sacred blue lotus”, is a wonderful and mysterious herb that supports the functioning of multiple glands in the body. Known to have grown along the Nile River in Ancient Egypt, this blue flower grows atop the water, opening up to the sun for a few brief hours, and closing its petals for a long, deep sleep.

Taken before bed, I’ve experienced a depth and quality of sleep that is quite vivid and weightless. Known to contain the serotonergic and dopaminergic compounds apomorphine and nuciferine, the Sacred Blue Lotus will lull you into deep relaxation. Akin to a water nymph pulling you deep into the sea, the Neptunian spirit of this plant will inspire your awareness to dwell in deeper, highly rejuvenating waters.

I like to pair this herb with the adaptogenic Tulsi, or Holy Basil. Tulsi also supports the proper functioning of our glands, as well as a seemingly endless list of benefits that I will have to devote a few posts to in the future. A bit of Venusian dried rose adds a touch of sweetness and celebrates the more earthy octave of Neptune.

I recommend making a jar of this tea and brewing a batch an hour or so before sleep. Steep and enjoy with gratitude and intention, and your efforts will be magnified in the dream state.

Tulsi Lotus and Rose Herbal Tea

3 tbsp dried organic Tulsi

3 tbsp dried organic Sacred Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)

1 tbsp dried organic rose petals

Steep 2 tsp per cup of hot (not boiling) water for 5-7 minutes, keeping a lid over the vessel to prevent the aromatics from escaping.

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