Passionflower

Passionflower

Passiflora incarnata

Family

Passifloraceae (passionflower)

Part

Aerial parts

Energetics

Sweet, sour, cool

Actions

Nervine, sedative, antispasmodic, anodyne

Organs/Systems

Nerves, heart

Description

Passionflower is native to the tropic and semi-tropic regions of the Americas. The indigenous people in its habitat used the flower and leaves as a mild sedative for restlessness, anxiety, nervous stomach, high blood pressure, and symptoms of menopause. The root was sometimes used as a poultice for inflammatory conditions such as boils, cuts, and earaches. Passionflower is an important remedy for excessive nerve activity, and can be used to successfully treat conditions such as overthinking, mild insomnia, anxiety, spasms, and cramps. Modern research shows this herb modulates the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which our body uses to inhibit excessive neuronal excitation. Its effect in quieting unnecessary mental chatter can be useful to induce sleep, but also during the day to help concentration without causing drowsiness. Passionflower is a wonderful remedy for willful or fiery individuals who tend to overstimulate themselves, and is safe for children and elderly alike.

Cautions

Hypersensitivity possible in very rare cases.

* This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.