What comes to mind when you hear the name, ‘passion flower’? Does it invoke the feelings of love and beauty in your heart? Well, you are not alone–most have never even seen it but they just somehow assume that for two cute words to appear together, something beautiful must be close behind.
This article is just in time. Let’s talk about this strikingly potent wildflower.
It was in 1569, during an exploration by some Spanish in Peru that this highly medicinal plant was discovered. The explorers thought it interesting that the plant had some similarities with the sufferings of Christ for mankind – this meant God was in support of their venture.
Passion flower is a plant known for its extracts used in producing flavoring and medicines. The plant is capable of alleviating health issues such as sleep irregularities, heart palpitations, swelling, seizures, digestive problems and ADHD, just to name a few. There are even claims that passion flower may be just as powerful as prescription drugs in the management of anxiety.
The benefits of passion flower
Passion flower is effective for:
1. Anxiety
The powerful components in passion flower act as sedative to ease panic attacks and anxiety. It does this by calming the nervous system; pacing out breathing and lowering the blood pressure. This plant can increase the feeling of relaxation, make you happier and at peace.
In addition, women who suffer menopausal symptoms like depression and anger can try out passion flower as a natural remedy. The plant helps in blocking monoamine oxidase production in the system. This is precisely what synthetic anti-depressant drugs try to achieve.
2. High blood sugar
Diabetic patients need to always prevent complications like high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. Fortunately, they can reduce blood sugar levels by consuming yellow passion flower peel. Passion flower is also useful for diabetic patients who suffer insulin resistance.
3. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Imagine how relieving passion flower is for parents whose children suffer from the several unwanted symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) [1]. Did you know that results from a clinical trial in 2005 indicated that the herb serves as a viable alternative to conventional stimulants used for children suffering from ADHD?
Like in the case of anxiety, passion flower has the exact effect on ADHD. It can improve focus and reduce stress.
4. High blood pressure
In a study conducted by The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, results suggest that passion flower compound called edullic acid can lower blood pressure levels. Researchers believe that increases antioxidant enzymes and thereby, activate detoxification.
5. Inflammation and pain
For many years, people have applied passion flower to wounds, burns, joint pains and boils especially since it reduces inflammation. A study showed that the use of dried passion flower can decrease the fluid buildup because of its antioxidant properties. Thus, causing a significant reduction in inflammation.
The sedative effects of passion flower can also relax the muscles, soothe headaches, and alleviate toothaches.
6. Sleep irregularities
Studies suggest that passion flower may be effective in increasing the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain [2]. This, in turn, addresses the issues of anxiety and insomania.
In another trial, participants who drank a daily dose of herbal tea with purple passion flower showed positive changes in their sleep patterns after seven days. So if you’re looking to sleep like a baby, passion flower is just your best ally!
Potential side effects
According to the NCCIH, passion flower is generally well-tolerated. However, side effects like nausea, confusion, dizziness and sleepiness are likely after usage [3].
Also, the herb may not be ideal for pregnant mothers, nursing mothers, children below 6 months and people with serious illnesses.
How to take passion flower
Passion flower can be taken in many forms—as liquid extracts, herbal tea, tablets and capsules. For herbal tea, just add one teaspoon of dried passion flower to boiling water. For relaxation, passion flower can also be added to your bath water.
However, as always, consult your doctor before considering passion flower as a treatment option. That way, you’d be able to weigh the benefits and side effects.
Bottom line
Passion flower is evidently a viable treatment option for cases of anxiety, sleep pattern irregularities, lack of concentration, hot flashes associated with menopause, high blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, and inflammation. The plant is also helpful in the treatment of ADHD.
However, we do have to be careful when self-medicating. It is advisable to that you have your doctor approve the use of passion flower and take note of any potential side effects.
References
[1]. ‘Passion Flower for Hot Flashes, Depression & Better Sleep.’ Available: https://draxe.com/passion-flower/
[2]. ‘The efficacy of Iranian herbal medicines in alleviating hot flashes: A systematic review.’ Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27294213
[3]. ‘Passionflower.’ Available: https://nccih.nih.gov/health/passionflower
