For centuries, healers have turned to the passionflower as a naturopathic medicine. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this medicinal herb contains compounds that may help to ease symptoms of anxiety, nervousness, insomnia and seizures. Passionflower appears to be safe when used appropriately, but practitioners generally recommend against its use during pregnancy. It could cause serious problems for the mother or unborn child.
Medicinal Uses
Passion flower teas and supplements demonstrate some efficacy as treatments for certain medical conditions. Historically viewed as a sedative, passionflower appears to alter levels of certain chemicals in the brain, creating feelings of sleepiness and calmness. The National Institutes of Health regard passionflower as "possibly effective" as a treatment for anxiety and narcotic drug withdrawal. Less compelling evidence suggests that it may ease insomnia, nervous stomach, fibromyalgia and hypertension. More studies are needed to conclusively demonstrate its efficacy.
Theoretical Value During Pregnancy
In theory, passionflower may help relieve pregnancy-related stress and anxiety. This could, in turn, benefit the unborn child. According to the March of Dimes, untreated anxiety in pregnancy can lead to preterm birth and underweight babies. For this reason, it is important for expectant mothers to seek effective treatment options. Because passionflower helps to relieve these symptoms, it may be a beneficial treatment for expectant mothers. However, no studies have confirmed its safety during this sensitive stage of life. Consult with your doctor before using passionflower.
Potential Dangers
More clinical trials are needed to determine how, or if, passionflower alters the health of pregnant women or unborn children. Like most medicinal herbs, passionflower has been the subject of only limited research, none of which has involved pregnant humans. Nevertheless, the National Institutes of Health firmly classifies the herb as unsafe for pregnant women, noting that it may cause the uterus to contract, leading to preterm birth or miscarriage. Other potential concerns, such as birth defects, have not been investigated.
General Side Effects
Passionflower can cause several uncomfortable side effects, both during pregnancy and in other stages. It can cause dizziness and confusion, even when used in moderate doses. Confusion and altered consciousness also are common concerns, and the herb can cause a loss of muscle coordination. Compounds in passionflower also can inflame blood vessels. These side effects could be very serious during pregnancy because abrupt changes in consciousness or blood pressure can be fatal to an unborn child.
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