Passionflower is listed by the National Institutes of Health as "likely safe" for a majority of people. Although pregnant women should not take it because the chemical action sometimes causes uterus compression. Side effects associated with poor tolerance of the herb include dizziness, confusion, nausea and vomiting. Passionflower's interaction with prescription and over-the-counter medication has not been well researched so speak with a health care provider before using passionflower as part of a larger plan to manage stress.
Stress
Stress is a constant of life. Whether it's meeting the big dead-line at work, or just navigating the daily traffic jam on the way home, stress has an effect on physical and mental health. What's needed is an effective strategy to reduce the impact of stress. Because of passionflower's calming effect a physician may approve its use as a supplement for managing your stress. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that drinking 3 or 4 cups of passionflower tea per day may help with anxiety. To make each cup of tea, steep about 1 teaspoon of the dried herb in a cup of boiling water. Check with your doctor before using passionflower tea.
What Passionflower Can Do
Passionflower supplements are made from the dried flowers, leaves and stems of the plant and have a sedating effect when consumed. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, passionflower creates this calming effect by increasing brain levels of gamma-aminbutyric acid, called GABA. The specific biochemical mechanism which raises GABA levels is not fully understood, but the herb has been used for centuries in North America and Europe to reduce anxiety.
What Passionflower Cannot Do
While passionflower can possibly play a role in stress management, even a calming supplement such as passionflower cannot change stress-inducing behaviors which sabotage attempts to manage stress. The Mayo Clinic advises identifying and altering unhealthy stress reactions. Behaviors such as overeating, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and aggression are frequently attempts to reduce stress. In the long run, these behaviors only complicate the problem and interfere with attempts to manage stress in healthier ways.
Stress Management Plan
Drinking passionflower tea to help you relax may play a role in a larger stress management plan. Also, consider eliminating self-sabotaging behaviors which increase stress, and the daily commute might just seem less challenging. To add some real grit to the plan, add some classic stress management skills -- cut back on obligations, plan ahead, exercise and get enough sleep. Moreover, don't be shy to ask for help from others when you need it.
