Passion Flower: Benefits, Side Effects, Interactions

Passion flower (passiflora incarnata) is a traditional supplement used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and pain. Native to southeastern North America, this perennial climbing vine is now cultivated throughout Europe.

Passion Flower Health Benefits

Despite limited studies, passion flower is believed to provide several health benefits:

• May Reduce Anxiety: Evidence suggests that passion flower may be effective in treating anxiety, insomnia, and nervous disorders. Its anxiolytic effects are thought to stem from its impact on neurotransmitters like GABA and dopamine. One study observed significant increases in dopamine levels after using passion flower extract.

• May Relieve Stomach Upset: Some research suggests that specific types of passion flower may alleviate stomach problems like ulcers. An animal study showed that passion flower extract helped reduce stomach ulcers in rats. However, more human studies are needed to confirm this effect.

Other Uses

Passion flower is also used to treat:

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Burns
• Heart rhythm problems
• Hemorrhoids
• Pain
• Sleep problems
• Symptoms associated with menopause
• Stress

However, evidence supporting these uses is lacking. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there is insufficient research to demonstrate passion flower's effectiveness in treating cardiac issues, stress, menopause, pain, burns, hemorrhoids, or ADHD.

More rigorous studies are necessary to draw firm conclusions about passion flower's efficacy for anxiety problems and other health conditions.

Possible Side Effects

Passion flower side effects are rare but may include:

• Drowsiness
• Mental slowing
• Nausea
• Rapid heartbeat
• Vomiting

Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how passion flower affects you.

Passion flower is generally considered safe and nontoxic. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate herb and supplement production.

One small study linked passion flower to pregnancy complications, warranting further research to understand this potential risk.

Most herbs and supplements are not thoroughly tested, so their ingredients and safety cannot be guaranteed.

Dosage and Preparation

These dosages are guidelines, not prescriptions:

• Infusions: 2.5 grams, three to four times daily
• Teas: Tea made from 4 to 8 grams of dried herb, daily
• Liquid extract: 10 to 30 drops, three times daily
• Tincture: 10 to 60 drops, three times daily

There is insufficient evidence to support passion flower use in children.

Precautions When Taking Passion Flower

• Always read the product label and discuss it with a healthcare provider, considering your specific medical needs and any other medications or supplements you may be using.
• Avoid passion flower during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Be cautious if taking blood thinners or anti-seizure medications, as these may interact with passion flower.
• Avoid combining passion flower with certain supplements like kava and valerian root.
• Alcohol, caffeine, and aspirin may not mix well with passion flower usage.

Recap: Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using passion flower to discuss potential interactions with other medications or treatments.

Drug Interactions and Warnings

Passion flower may interact with various medications, including:

• Antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Benzodiazepines
• Barbiturates
• Narcotics

Take caution when using passion flower with blood thinners or anti-seizure medications. Other supplements like kava and valerian root may also cause interactions. Additionally, alcohol, caffeine, and aspirin may not mix well with passion flower.

Remember: Always consult with a healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions before using passion flower.

Passion flower alone has not been associated with liver problems. However, one case report indicated a fatal liver injury from a combination of kava and passion flower.

Alternatives to Passion Flower

If passion flower is ineffective or you prefer other options, consider these treatments and supplements:

Other Herbal Supplements

• Chamomile: Studies have shown its effectiveness in reducing anxiety and possibly acting as an antidepressant.
• St. John's Wort: Research suggests its usefulness in treating mild to moderate depression, but its value for anxiety is still unclear.

Medication and Psychotherapy

• Consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment advice.
• Evidence-based treatments like medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) have proven effective in reducing anxiety symptoms.
• Talk to your doctor about a referral to a qualified mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment.

A Word From Verywell

Passion flower may provide benefits, including anxiety relief. However, more evidence is needed to support its use for various purposes. If you decide to try passion flower, be aware of potential side effects and discuss any medications, substances, or supplements you are taking with your doctor to avoid potential drug interactions.