Some teas, including passionflower tea, produce a calming effect. Dried passionflower herb is the only active ingredient in passionflower tea. It is available in loose powder form and as prepackaged tea bags. Because it is a central nervous system depressant, it is best that you avoid combining passionflower tea with other herbs or sedatives. Since all herbs can cause side effects, consult your doctor before drinking passionflower tea.
Background
Passionflower is a tall, woody, climbing, perennial vine that grows about 32 feet long. It has distinctive white, magenta and blue flower petals. Though passionflower is native to southeastern parts of the Americas, it is also cultivated in Europe. The flowers, leaves and stems are used medicinally. Passionflower has been used traditionally in America and Europe for anxiety and insomnia, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Passionflower's effects are similar to those of valerian root and kava, two other calming herbs commonly used for anxiety.
Clinical Data
Generalized anxiety disorder is the condition of worrying constantly about various events. Passionflower may help if you have generalized anxiety disorder. A double-blind, randomized controlled trial published in the October 2001 issue of "Journal and Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics" examined the effects of pasionflower extract compared to oxazepam, an anxiety medication, on generalized anxiety disorder. The study found that passionflower extract is as effective as oxazepam, with no noticeable difference between the two.
Dose and Preparation
Prepackaged passionflower tea is commonly steeped in a cup of hot water for about 10 minutes. You can and add flavorings such as lemon and honey if you choose. Passionflower tea is also commonly made from steeping 0.5 to 2 g of dried herb in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. A typical dose for anxiety is 3 to 4 cups a day, says the UMMC. For insomnia, one cup is commonly taken before bed.
Precautions
According to Medline Plus, passionflower is likely safe in normal amounts if you are healthy. Side effects are generally mild and include dizziness, nausea and drowsiness. You should not take passionflower tea if you are pregnant or nursing. You should not give passionflower tea to children because clinical studies on its effects in children are lacking. It is best not to combine passionflower tea with other sedative herbs -- such as valerian -- or medications, such as anti-anxiety or sleep medication.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Passionflower; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2009
- Medline Plus; Passionflower; April 2011
- "Journal and Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics"; Passionflower in the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety: A Pilot Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial With Oxazepam; S Akhondzadeh et al.; October 2001
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