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Passion Flower Herb
100% ORGANIC
The herb most commonly used as passionflower is Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, a flowering vine native to the Americas. The leaves, stems, and flowers are used for medicinal purposes, primarily as a mild sedative. Its traditional uses for anxiety and sleeplessness are supported by small studies, but its long-term safety and effectiveness are still unknown.
Traditional and studied uses
Anxiety: Passionflower has been used for centuries to calm the nervous system. Studies suggest it can be effective for generalized anxiety disorder, and it may reduce anxiety before surgical or dental procedures. Some research indicates it may be as effective as some anti-anxiety medications but with fewer side effects.
Insomnia and sleep quality: Because of its calming effects, passionflower is used as a sleep aid for insomnia and restlessness. A tea made from the herb has been shown to provide short-term improvements in sleep quality in healthy adults.
Restlessness and nervousness: The herb is used to relieve nervous overstimulation, agitation, and restlessness. It may also calm a busy mind with "circular thoughts" that interfere with sleep.
ADHD: Small studies suggest passionflower may help reduce symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents, potentially with fewer side effects than some prescription drugs.
Menopausal symptoms: Some research indicates passionflower may help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and headaches associated with menopause.
Opiate withdrawal: Passionflower has shown potential in easing the emotional symptoms of opiate withdrawal, such as anxiety and agitation, when combined with other medications.
How to take passionflower
Passionflower is available in several forms, and dosage can vary by product. It's best to follow product label directions or consult a healthcare professional.
Tea: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried passionflower herb in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
Tincture: A typical dose is 10 to 60 drops, taken three times per day.
Capsules: Doses of 200–500 mg, 2–3 times a day, are sometimes recommended.
Safety, side effects, and risks
While generally considered safe for short-term use, passionflower has some notable risks and side effects.
Drowsiness: The herb can cause sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, and impaired coordination. It should not be taken before driving or operating heavy machinery.
Medication interactions: Passionflower can increase the effects of other sedatives, including benzodiazepines, opioids, and some antidepressants. It may also interact with blood pressure medications and blood thinners.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Passionflower is not recommended for pregnant women because it can cause uterine contractions. Its safety for breastfeeding has not been established.
Surgery: Stop taking passionflower at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery, as it can interact with anesthesia.
Heart health: Large doses may lead to central nervous system depression and irregular heart rhythms. People with heart conditions should use caution and consult a doctor.
Important considerations
Consult a doctor: Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking passionflower, especially if you take other medications or have a health condition.
Species identification: Be certain you are using Passiflora incarnata. Other species of passionflower may be toxic.
Not FDA regulated: Dietary supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way as prescription drugs, and product content can vary.
100% ORGANIC
The herb most commonly used as passionflower is Passiflora incarnata, also known as maypop, a flowering vine native to the Americas. The leaves, stems, and flowers are used for medicinal purposes, primarily as a mild sedative. Its traditional uses for anxiety and sleeplessness are supported by small studies, but its long-term safety and effectiveness are still unknown.
Traditional and studied uses
Anxiety: Passionflower has been used for centuries to calm the nervous system. Studies suggest it can be effective for generalized anxiety disorder, and it may reduce anxiety before surgical or dental procedures. Some research indicates it may be as effective as some anti-anxiety medications but with fewer side effects.
Insomnia and sleep quality: Because of its calming effects, passionflower is used as a sleep aid for insomnia and restlessness. A tea made from the herb has been shown to provide short-term improvements in sleep quality in healthy adults.
Restlessness and nervousness: The herb is used to relieve nervous overstimulation, agitation, and restlessness. It may also calm a busy mind with "circular thoughts" that interfere with sleep.
ADHD: Small studies suggest passionflower may help reduce symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents, potentially with fewer side effects than some prescription drugs.
Menopausal symptoms: Some research indicates passionflower may help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and headaches associated with menopause.
Opiate withdrawal: Passionflower has shown potential in easing the emotional symptoms of opiate withdrawal, such as anxiety and agitation, when combined with other medications.
How to take passionflower
Passionflower is available in several forms, and dosage can vary by product. It's best to follow product label directions or consult a healthcare professional.
Tea: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried passionflower herb in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
Tincture: A typical dose is 10 to 60 drops, taken three times per day.
Capsules: Doses of 200–500 mg, 2–3 times a day, are sometimes recommended.
Safety, side effects, and risks
While generally considered safe for short-term use, passionflower has some notable risks and side effects.
Drowsiness: The herb can cause sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, and impaired coordination. It should not be taken before driving or operating heavy machinery.
Medication interactions: Passionflower can increase the effects of other sedatives, including benzodiazepines, opioids, and some antidepressants. It may also interact with blood pressure medications and blood thinners.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Passionflower is not recommended for pregnant women because it can cause uterine contractions. Its safety for breastfeeding has not been established.
Surgery: Stop taking passionflower at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery, as it can interact with anesthesia.
Heart health: Large doses may lead to central nervous system depression and irregular heart rhythms. People with heart conditions should use caution and consult a doctor.
Important considerations
Consult a doctor: Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking passionflower, especially if you take other medications or have a health condition.
Species identification: Be certain you are using Passiflora incarnata. Other species of passionflower may be toxic.
Not FDA regulated: Dietary supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way as prescription drugs, and product content can vary.