Passionflower
A gentle anxiolytic herb that rivals benzodiazepines for anxiety without the side effects
Also known as: Passiflora incarnata • Maypop • Purple Passionflower
Overview
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine native to the southeastern United States that has been used medicinally by Native Americans for centuries as a sedative and anxiolytic. It was later adopted into European herbal medicine and is now one of the most popular herbs for anxiety and insomnia worldwide. The plant contains a complex mixture of flavonoids (chrysin, vitexin, isovitexin), alkaloids, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Its mechanism of action primarily involves modulating the GABA-A receptor system, similar to benzodiazepines but with a much gentler effect profile. A landmark clinical trial showed passionflower was as effective as oxazepam (a benzodiazepine) for generalized anxiety disorder, with significantly fewer side effects. It's particularly valued for its ability to calm the mind without causing significant sedation or cognitive impairment.
Key Benefits
Anxiety Reduction
A double-blind RCT showed passionflower extract was as effective as oxazepam (a benzodiazepine) for generalized anxiety disorder over 4 weeks, with significantly less impairment of job performance. It works through GABA-A receptor modulation.
Sleep Improvement
Passionflower improves sleep quality without the hangover effect of stronger sedatives. A study using passionflower tea showed significant improvement in subjective sleep quality compared to placebo tea.
Pre-Operative Anxiety
Multiple studies show passionflower reduces pre-surgical anxiety as effectively as midazolam (a benzodiazepine) without the amnesia, dizziness, or psychomotor impairment.
Nervous System Support
Passionflower calms nervous tension, reduces muscle spasms related to anxiety, and helps break the cycle of anxious thoughts without causing significant drowsiness during the day.
Dosage & How to Take
200-500mg of standardized extract daily, or 1-2 cups of passionflower tea
| Purpose | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Generalized anxiety | 200-400mg extract daily | Divided into 2-3 doses |
| Sleep support | 300-500mg before bed | Or 1-2 cups tea 30-60 min before bed |
| Pre-operative anxiety | 500mg 90 minutes before procedure | Single dose for situational anxiety |
| Tea | 1-2g dried herb per cup | Steep 10 minutes, 1-3 cups daily |
Best Time to Take
For anxiety: divided doses throughout the day. For sleep: 30-60 minutes before bed.
With or Without Food
Can be taken with or without food
Forms & Bioavailability
| Form | Absorption | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standardized Extract (3.5% flavonoids) | Good | Anxiety and sleep | Most consistent dosing |
| Tea | Moderate | Gentle daily use | Pleasant taste, relaxing ritual |
| Tincture | Good | Fast onset | Can be added to water or taken sublingually |
| Combination Products | Variable | Synergistic effect | Often combined with valerian, lemon balm, or hops |
Side Effects & Safety
Common
- Mild drowsiness
- Dizziness at higher doses
Rare
- Confusion (at very high doses)
- Nausea
Contraindications
- Concurrent use with sedative medications
- Pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions)
- MAO inhibitor use (contains harmala alkaloids)
Interactions
Additive sedation
Passionflower contains harmala alkaloids — potential interaction
Enhanced sedative effects
Theoretical antiplatelet effect
Scientific Research
Passionflower vs Oxazepam for GAD
Passionflower extract was as effective as oxazepam for generalized anxiety with significantly less job performance impairment
Pre-Operative Anxiety
500mg passionflower reduced pre-surgical anxiety as effectively as midazolam without cognitive side effects
Sleep Quality
Passionflower tea significantly improved subjective sleep quality in a 7-day crossover trial
Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.