What Is Passiflora Incanata Used for?

How It Works

• Exactly how passionflower works remains unknown but some theories exist. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports passionflower might increase production of GABA, a chemical that induces a feeling of relaxation. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center explains it might block the activity of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme which destroys serotonin and other brain chemicals -- low levels of that lead to depression and anxiety.

Anxiety

• Probably best known for anxiety-relief, research indicates that passionflower might work as well as prescription anti-anxiety medications. Sloan Kettering notes a study where patients who took passionflower 90 minutes before surgery experienced a significant reduction in anxiety compared to the control group. Some studies investigating the effects of passionflower used supplements that contained other herbs known for their calming effects, which makes it difficult to examine the individual effectiveness of passionflower itself.

Opioid Drug Withdrawal

• The combination of passionflower with clonidine, a drug used to treat symptoms of withdrawal from opioid drugs, works better than the drug alone to treat issues like anxiety, irritability and insomnia. It notes however, this combination does not offer greater effectiveness for physical symptoms like nausea when compared to clonidine alone.

Other Uses

• Like most herbal remedies, the list of suggested uses ranges far and wide and includes an eclectic mix of conditions though many do not have any scientific evidence behind them. It has been suggested for seizures and Sloan Kettering notes research that found it demonstrated anticonvulsant activity. Other possible uses include anxiety-induced gastrointestinal upset, insomnia, fibromyalgia, ADHD, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, withdrawal from anti-anxiety medications, neuralgia and asthma.

Drug Interactions

• Using passionflower in combination with drugs or other herbs that induce a sedative effect can result in excessive sleepiness and drowsiness. Same goes for combining it with alcohol. This herb might also interact with blood-thinning medications, and antidepressants.

Considerations for Use

• Avoid use if pregnant as substances present in passionflower could stimulate uterine contractions. Consult your pediatrician before giving this herb to children. MedlinePlus reports the following dosages have been used in scientific studies: either 45 drops of liquid extract taken daily or a 90mg tablet taken daily for anxiety and 60 drops taken daily with 0.8mg clonidine for opioid withdrawal.