Passionflower is a perennial climbing vine native to southeastern parts of the United States, Mexico, Central America and is cultivated throughout Europe. AltMD states there are over 400 species of this plant, but the only one used for medicinal purposes is Passiflora incarnata. It is used most often to treat anxiety and insomnia. Consult your health care provider to discuss all your medication before taking passionflower because there are some side effects and interactions associated with its use.
Historical Aspects
Passionflower vine grows on a woody stem up to a height of 30 feet. Discovered in Peru in 1569, Passionflower was given its name by Spanish conquistadors because they felt the beautiful corona in the middle of its of white-to-purple flowers resembled the crown of thorns worn by Jesus during the time of the crucifixion. It is also called maypop, apricot vine, Flor De Passion and granadilla. The above-ground parts, including the stems, leaves and flowers, are harvested for use in herbal preparations. Traditionally, passionflower was used by Native Americans as a sedative and calming herb for hysteria, insomnia, anxiety and seizures.
Uses
Passionflower is used for insomnia and anxiety. Its effects are similar to other calming herbs used for anxiety, such as kava and valerian. Passionflower is often found in combination with lemon balm and valerian, so be sure to read the supplement label so you know exactly what you are taking. The University of Maryland Medical Center states the herb is thought to work by increasing the levels of GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, in the brain, which produces a relaxing effect. It is also used with hawthorn to relieve stomach pain.
Side Effects
Passionflower is on the FDA's GRAS -- Generally Regarded As Safe -- list. However, it does produce side effects in some, so take it only under your doctor's supervision. The side effects include confusion, altered consciousness, dizziness, impaired coordination and blood vessel inflammation. A 2000 edition of the "Journal of Toxicology" reports one case of a woman requiring hospitalization due to severe nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat and drowsiness she experienced after taking passionflower.
Precautions
Do not take passionflower if you are pregnant; it contains certain alkaloid substances that stimulate contractions of the uterus. For safety, it should not be taken along with some prescription medications, including MAO inhibitors, alprazolam, phenytoin, barbiturates, zolpidem and amitriptyline, because it may increase their effects. It should not be used in combination with other sedative-type herbs, such as California poppy, skullcap and St. John's wort. Passionflower may increase blood clotting time, so don't take it in addition to blood thinning medication unless advised to do so by your physician.
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