Passion Flower (Passiflora Incarnata)

Passion Flower has been used for treating high blood pressure, mild to moderate anxiety, epilepsy, insomnia and other conditions which cause hyperactivity or restlessness.

The leaves, stems, and flowers of Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata) are either dried or made into alcohol-based tinctures for use in natural medicine.  There are historical records to show it has been used as a sedative and a mild pain reliever for hundreds of years.

Modern practitioners find this herb to be most effective when treating pain associated with muscle tension.  The natural sedative properties found in passion flower work differently than those in conventional medicine.   It relaxes the tense muscle, but doesn’t have any side effects or impact on cognitive function.

This herb is also used to treat pain associated with menstrual cramps and mild headaches; both which are tied to muscle tension.  Many women also use it to treat symptoms of menopause, especially hot flashes/night sweating.  The herb helps to increase levels of Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in women during menopause, which helps to alleviate depression.  Additionally the alkaloids in Passion Flower slow the production of monoamine oxidase; higher levels lead to depression.

Because Passion Flower lowers anxiety levels, it is used for dozens of applications.  People in high stress situations or those with gastrointestinal issues caused by stress will definitely benefit from used this herb.

It can be administered in two ways; tincture or tea made from the dried herb.   Take 1 tsp. 3 times daily if you are using the tincture.  Use a large mug, fill a tea ball with apx. 1 tbsp. dried herb, fill cup with boiling water and wait 10 minutes for it to steep.  You can drink it three times daily.  If you are taking this herb for sleep disorders, drink your last cup near bedtime.

Do not mix Passion Flower tea or tincture with other sedatives or high blood pressure medications.