Flower of calm or risky plant? The possible dangers of the passionflower

Already used as a traditional remedy by the Aztecs to soothe the mind, the passionflower, or passion flower, is recognized for its relaxing virtues. This tropical plant with elegant blue and white flowers thus promotes a deep sleep helps release tension and supports emotional balance. But can it be used safely? Discover how Passiflora incarnata can become a precious ally for well-being, safely.

Key points to remember: 

• Allergic reactions are relatively rare in the context of passionflower use;

• Decreased alertness is an undesirable effect of passionflower related to its sedative properties;

• The recommended dose of passionflower infusion is 1 to 2 g of dried leaves for 150 ml of boiling water;

• Passionflower treatments are generally advised for a maximum duration of 4 weeks;

• Passionflower is not recommended in case of liver impairment, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and in children under 12 years old.

Passionflower, an ancient plant with relaxing virtues

The soothing properties of passionflower

The sedative properties of passionflower come from its natural compounds: flavonoids, powerful antioxidants, and beta-carboline alkaloids, which have a regulatory effect on the neurotransmitter GABA.

Its virtues are recognized by theEuropean Medicines Agency (EMA) which concludes that due to its long-standing traditional use, passionflower can be used to relieve symptoms of mental stress and help with sleep. The EMA further adds that passionflower has been safely consumed for over 30 years without the need for medical supervision.

A sleep aid

Thanks to the powerful action of its active ingredients on the central nerve, which help reduce neuronal excitability, passionflower promotes falling asleep without causing dependence.

To accompany you towards rest, you can enjoy its benefits in different forms:

●      In herbal tea: 2 g of dried leaves per cup, up to 4 times a day;

●      In powder: from 0.5 to 2 g per dose, up to 4 times a day;

●      In liquid extract: 2 ml per dose, 3 times a day.

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A natural anxiolytic

By acting on the central nervous system, passionflower also helps soothe restlessness, irritability, and anxiety. These therapeutic claims are confirmed by the European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP). The scientific studies also demonstrate superior efficacy compared to benzodiazepine-type anxiolytics as well as conventional treatments for the psychological symptoms of withdrawal in drug addicts.

The soothing properties of passionflower also act on the cardiovascular system by calming the heart rate and reducing palpitations related to stress or anxiety. It thus has a mild hypotensive action that can help lower blood pressure.

To enhance its soothing effect, you can use passionflower in synergy with other plants such as hawthorn, lemon balm, valerian, and chamomile.

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Potential dangers of passionflower

While the virtues of passionflower are recognized and the risks related to its consumption remain rare, certain precautions are necessary. We recommend consulting a healthcare professional before use, especially if you are undergoing medical treatment or have pre-existing medical conditions.

Possible side effects

Side effects of passionflower are uncommon but may include digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal pain.

Although rare, mild allergic reactions may also occur, manifesting as skin rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties.

Also be careful if you drive or use machinery: the relaxing properties of passionflower could cause excessive drowsiness or symptoms similar to those of benzodiazepines such as headaches and dizziness.

Sensitivity to the plant is individual: listen to your body to adjust the dosage if necessary.

Drug interactions

Passionflower can increase the effect of blood-thinning medications. While this effect is still poorly documented, it should be monitored in case of anticoagulant treatment. Be equally cautious when combined with certain plants with blood-thinning action such as angelica, garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, and red clover.

Passionflower can also cause a interaction with medications (or plants) affecting the liver. Indeed, there are isolated reports of liver toxicity associated with prolonged use, although this is rare and further research is needed to confirm this risk.

Associated with a psychiatric treatment or other plants acting on the nervous system, the active ingredients of passionflower can also cause an overdose leading to decreased alertness. Therefore, avoid passionflower if you are undergoing treatment with sleeping pills, tranquilizers, antidepressants, neuroleptics, antipsychotics, etc.

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Contraindications to know

●      Passionflower is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under 12 years old;

●      Alcohol consumption is to be avoided in combination with passionflower;

●      Avoid prolonged use of passionflower and instead favor occasional courses lasting a maximum of 4 weeks.

Author Laurent Gheller

Passionflower FAQ

What are the dangers of Passionflower?

Passionflower is often well tolerated, but some precautions are necessary. Do not use it if you are allergic to this plant or in combination with other treatments affecting the nervous system, blood circulation, or liver.

What are the benefits and uses of Passionflower?

Passionflower has soothing properties. It is recommended to relieve mild sleep disorders (insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, early awakenings), mild anxiety and its physical manifestations (digestive disorders and palpitations), and stress.

How to use Passionflower for sleep?

Passionflower is known to help with falling asleep and improving sleep quality. It is used for its relaxing effects.

Can Passionflower be a natural anxiolytic?

Yes, the active compounds in passionflower naturally act against anxiety. It also helps to alleviate its physical symptoms, such as digestive disorders and palpitations.

What are the contraindications of Passionflower?

Before using it, especially if you are undergoing medical treatment, seek the advice of a healthcare professional. Drug interactions may occur.

What are the possible side effects of Passionflower?

Although rare, passionflower can cause side effects such as headaches, dizziness, digestive disorders, allergic reactions, or decreased alertness. Consult a healthcare professional if these symptoms persist.

Are there any drug interactions with Passionflower?

Passionflower can interact with certain classes of medications such as anxiolytics, antidepressants, antiepileptics, and anticoagulants. Be sure to consult your doctor before using it.