Today we're going to explore a simple trick that may help improve your dream recall and

therefore your chances of inducing lucidity.

Memory plays an important role for the lucid dreamer, not only is the development of strong

dream recall absolutely essential but skills in prospective memory (that is, remembering

to perform a task in the future), are vital for lucid dream induction.

However, during sleep, the mind naturally operates under sub-optimal conditions in regards

to memory formation and recollection.

This is, in part, due to changes in the cholinergic system.

Our memory relies upon a neurotransmitter known as Acetylcholine - which is considerably

suppressed during sleep.

There are many ways to counter this natural amnesia.

Some choose to use supplements such as Galantamine - which actively suppresses an enzyme known

as Acetylcholinesterase - which catalyses the breakdown of acetylcholine.

A more natural approach is the Wake Back to Bed method - which, in combination with mental

exercises, can help the brain reach Acetylcholine levels similar to that of wakefulness, before then

returning to sleep.

There is, however, a potential newcomer in these regards - a technique that is somewhere

between the two.

In folk medicine, rosemary has been associated for centuries with an improved memory.

Until recently it has been uncertain if this were simply a poetic concept, a superstitious

belief or if it genuinely had a basis in fact.

Now to be quite honest, when I first heard of the possibility of using an essential oil

for improved memory I was sceptical, it sounded like Aromatherapy or hokum. Yet, there is an

increasing body of quality scientific research that certainly seems to back up these claims.

Rosemary oil contains multiple compounds, one of which is called 1,8-cineole - which

may act in a similar manner to drugs such as galantamine.

Additionally, inhalation is also one of the best ways of getting drugs into the brain.

As small molecules can pass into the bloodstream and then into the brain without being broken

down by the liver.

Indeed, Prof Mark Moss of Northumbria University has performed several studies showing a statistically

significant increase in memory function for those exposed to Rosemary oil.

Interestingly, a control group was exposed to Lavender oil, which had a negative impact

on memory - this is something that is important to note considering how many sleep aids contain

lavender.

For those who'd like to explore the science further, there are links to the research in the video description.

In my personal experiments, using just a couple of drops of rosemary oil on my pillow, I noticed

a significant improvement in dream recall throughout the night.

The effects are certainly very similar to a low dose of galantamine.

As an added benefit, the fragrant scent of the pillow helped focus my mind, in the periods

of wakefulness throughout the night, to pay close attention to my dream recall.

So, it would seem that if you'd like an easy way to improve your dream recall and therefore your chances of

lucidity - try adding a few drops of rosemary oil to your pillow.

I'd suggest using this method a maximum of two times a week, to avoid developing

any tolerance.

It's important to note that the science behind this concept is still relatively new - so

we're in a somewhat pioneering territory.

So, if you try out this technique, I'd really love to hear your experiences. So drop them in the comments below.

As always, if you like this video, please don't forget to like, share and, if you're new here, why not

subscribe.

Also, if you're feeling lovely, why not check out my Patreon page for a chance to have unique

insights into my work and to help support this channel.

So, that's it for today, thanks for watching!

I'm Daniel Love, the lucid guide, and until next time, sweet dreams.