Passion Flower Benefits

anxiety depression

If depression is related to menopause, passionflower might be the most effective herb. In addition to relieving symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats (which are depressing enough on their own), the alkaloids “chrysine” and “benzoflavone” found in this herb have been found to increase GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain. GABA is one of the inhibitory neurotransmitters used by the brain to prevent over-arousal and achieve balance. It also helps decrease the activity of brain cells that cause depression.

insomnia

Passionflower is a gentle anti-anxiety and slightly sedative herb that can even be used to induce a good night’s sleep in children. In one particular study, volunteers with insomnia were asked to drink a cup of passion flower tea before bed for a set period of time. All reported a significant improvement in sleep.

The increased GABA in the brain that passionflower can induce will also reduce the anxiety so often associated with insomnia. In addition, passionflower is known as a muscle relaxant that relieves tension that can make it difficult to fall asleep.

Antioxidant/Anti-Inflammatory

Passion flower is a powerful antioxidant due to the presence of the antioxidant compounds; Vitexin, isovitexin, kaempferol, quercetin, rutin, apigenin and luteolin glycosides. It also contains indole alkaloids, fatty acids, gum, maltol, phytosterols, sugars and trace amounts of essential oils. One compound in particular – quercetin – has been extensively studied and found to be exceptionally effective at ridding the body of harmful free radical molecules and inhibiting various enzymes that cause inflammation.

These compounds also relax the nervous system and help relieve nerve-related pain, such as back pain.

Lowers blood pressure

Studies show that using passion flower extract can help reduce high blood pressure (hypertension). It has been found that a cup of passion flower tea daily can help regulate blood pressure in people with mild hypertension. However, it is important to note that those taking blood pressure medication should not consume this herb as it can lower blood pressure to dangerous levels.

passion flower seed oil

Passion flower seed oil is one of the highest natural sources of omega-6 fatty acid (linolenic acid). This healing compound helps restore skin’s barrier function and may be beneficial for acne sufferers who have been found to have less linolenic acid than “normal” skin types. It’s also rich in vitamin A, which slows collagen breakdown and normalizes oil production, making it ideal for oily skin.

Passion flower seed oil is also great for use on the scalp and hair, moisturizes dry hair and its anti-inflammatory properties can help treat a dry, irritated scalp.

The name “passion flower” was coined by Spanish missionaries in Peru in the 15th century, who saw this unusual flower as a symbol of the crucifixion. Each part of the flower has a symbolic meaning in acknowledgment of the story of the crucifixion – the passion of Christ. Five sepals and five petals refer to the ten faithful apostles (except Jude and Peter). Three stigmata represent the three nails that held Christ on the cross, while five anthers represent his five holy wounds. The tendrils of the flower are said to resemble the whips used in the scourging, while the threads, which can number upwards of a hundred depending on the flower, represent the crown of thorns.

Medicinal uses of the herb first began in the United States in the late 1800s, when passionflower was used to treat nervous anxiety and gastrointestinal spasms.

Traditional usage
This stunningly beautiful flower is native to America, where it has been used to heal bruises and cuts for centuries. Modern herbalists recommend it as a powerful nerve tonic for treating stress, anxiety, and preparing the mind for restful sleep.

It has also been used traditionally to provide relief to women with menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, and is particularly adept at dealing with insomnia associated with this change in a woman’s life.

Typical usage
passion flower tea

1 teaspoon dried chopped herb per 1 cup boiling water. Drink up to 3 times a day.

Passion Flower Tincture

Can be added to water or fruit juice

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Traditionally taken: 1 – 4 ml 3 times daily or as directed by an herbal practitioner.

passion flower seed oil

Passion Flower Seed Oil can be used as a lightweight, non-greasy carrier oil for an aromatherapy bath or massage. Simply choose your favorite essential oils, dilute and use for a rejuvenating and rejuvenating massage or relaxing bath. Passionflower Seed Oil blends well with other carrier oils when you desire a thicker, more luxurious consistency.

Passion flower seed oil can also be used in homemade natural ones

Skin and hair preparations or applied directly to the skin.

components
Alkaloids such as harmine, harmane, harmol, harmaline, harmalol and passaflorine.
Flavonoids, apigenin, various glycosides, homoorientin, isovitexin, kaempferol, luteolin, orientin, quercetin, rutin, saponaretin, saponarin and vitexen.

Precautions
Do not take passionflower if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have liver damage/disease.

Passionflower can interfere with blood-thinning and antihypertensive medications. If you are taking medication, please consult your doctor.

Due to its sedative effects, driving or using machines is not recommended after consuming passionflower.