Passifloraceae
Passionflower
Passiflora incarnata
✓ Generally Safe
Avoid in Pregnancy
Native to: Southeastern United States, Central America
Also known as: Maypop, Wild Apricot, Apricot Vine
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Parts Used
LeafFlower
Therapeutic Uses
Anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, nervous tension, restlessness, opiate withdrawal support. Clinical trials show efficacy for generalized anxiety comparable to oxazepam with fewer side effects.
Herbal Actions
Anxiolytic, sedative, antispasmodic, hypnotic, nervine
Active Constituents
Flavonoids (chrysin, vitexin, orientin, isovitexin), maltol, harmane alkaloids (harman, harmine), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea🏺 Tincture💊 Capsule
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 2 tsp dried herb per 250ml, steep 15 min, 2–3x daily or before bed |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 45% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Excellent synergy with valerian and lemon balm for insomnia formulas. Clinical dose: 45–90 drops tincture or 200–400mg extract. Gentle enough for children with anxiety. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Avoid in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Avoid with CNS depressants and MAOIs (harmane alkaloids). Uterine stimulant — avoid in pregnancy. Caution when driving.
Side Effects: Drowsiness, dizziness at high doses. Rare cases of hepatitis reported with very high doses. Generally well tolerated.