Passiflora, also referred to as passion flower, is a natural supplement that has been used as a home remedy for various conditions. It was not until the late 19th century when this plant was used in the United States for medicinal purposes. Passiflora is used to relieve the symptoms of anxiety, insomnia and gastrointestinal spasms. Consult your doctor before taking any herbal supplement to avoid negative effects.
Anxiety Remedy
In a double-blind study, researchers confirmed that 45 drops of passion flower extract daily for four weeks was equal, in effectiveness, to 30 mg of oxazepam per day. Oxazepam is a prescription medication used for anxiety. If taken as a dried herb, four to eight grams is usually suggested. If you prefer to make a tea, 0.5 to 2.5 grams can be steeped for 10 to 15 minutes in boiling water; drink two to three times daily.
Insomnia Remedy
Much like the anxiety remedy, passiflora is effective in insomnia cases because of the calming effect. According to the University of Maryland, it is believed that passion flower works by increasing a chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This chemical lowers the activity of some of the brain cells which results in relaxation, or a slight depression of the central nervous system. You can make a tea or take as a dried herb as the aforementioned suggests.
Gastrointestinal Spasms Remedy
Passion flower works to alleviate the severity of the spasms by depressing the central nervous system as stated before. Take as a dried herb or drink as a tea in the same amounts as you would with anxiety and insomnia. Be sure to check with your pharmacist or physician for any adverse drug interactions.
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