For thousands of years, Native Americans have used the healing powers of the passionflower to treat a variety of conditions. From boils and wounds to earaches and liver problems, passionflower can be very beneficial when used properly. 

Passionflower, also known as Passiflora, is known for its calming effects on both the mind and body. That being said, what can passionflower be used for and what are its benefits and side effects?

What is Passionflower? 

Passionflower belongs to a family of plants known as Passiflora. This plant first came about when Spanish explorers learned about it from native Peruvians.

Once learning more about passionflower, they went on to name these plants for their resemblance to a crucifix. This is due to the fact that in Christian traditions, “the Passion” describes the final period of Jesus Christ’s life, including his crucifixion.

With the use of passionflower comes several benefits for a variety of different conditions. There are about 500 known species of passionflower, and each of the species can be used for different medicinal benefits. 

Benefits

No matter the method you choose to take passionflower, this plant can have extremely positive health outcomes if used properly. The benefits of passionflower range from anxiety, insomnia, indigestion, muscle cramps, asthma, diarrhea, and more.

Some other potential uses and benefits that are linked to the use of passionflower include:

  • ADHD
  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Burns
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Heart failure and fluid build up in the body (congestive heart failure or CHF)
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Inability to cope or adjust to a stressful event (adjustment disorders
  • Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
  • Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
  • Seizures not caused by epilepsy
  • Symptoms of menopause

While there are many uses that come from this plant, more research needs to be done in order to confirm all of the benefits that have been mentioned.

Side Effects

Passionflower contains potential side effects that you should be cautious of before use. Some of the potential common side effects of this plant include:

  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion

Although these side effects are rare, it’s important to be on the lookout for any signs of adverse reactions when you use passionflower. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using passionflower.

How to Take Passionflower

Passionflower can be used in numerous ways. If you add dried passionflower to boiling water, it can be used to create an herbal tea that is safe for consumption.

Passionflower is also easily found at many health food stores in the forms of dried passionflower, prepackaged tea, liquid extracts, capsules, and tablets.

For best practice, it’s important to follow the instructions of your doctor and the instructions indicated on the passionflower product label. 

Dosage

If you use passionflower orally for anxiety, it’s recommended to take capsules containing 400 mg of passionflower extract twice daily for 2-8 weeks.

If using passionflower in the form of a liquid extract, it’s recommended to take 45 drops daily for up to one month to see benefits. 

Before using passionflower, it’s recommended to talk to a healthcare provider, as the recommended dosage may change depending on your condition.

Final Thoughts

Passionflower is an extremely beneficial plant that can be used to treat a variety of conditions. Whether you mix it with an herbal tea or use a liquid extract, using passionflower can be worthwhile as it has various medicinal uses. 

If you are thinking about using passionflower, you should consult with your doctor first. They will be able to provide more information on whether or not it would be beneficial for you. 

Further, when purchasing passionflower products, look to the packaging labels for more information. You may want to look out for the following.

  • What, if any, government labels the package has to determine the level of regulation and testing the product underwent
  • Other ingredients in the product that you could be sensitive to

Disclaimers: This article does not constitute professional medical advice, nor can it replace the advice of a licensed professional.

Further Reading

Echinacea – Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects

Ashwagandha – Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects

Hawthorn Berry – Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects

Acerola Cherry – Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects

Soursop – Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects

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