Many herb and flower remedies are now well known, but some are still shrinking violets. One of those is the stunning passionflower, but that’s surprising as it offers so many benefits.
Native to the US, the passionflower is so called not because of romance, but because of biblical connections. The fringe-like crown represents the crown of thorns, the three styles correspond with the number of nails used on the cross, the five anthers represent the wounds, and the ten petals are said to symbolise the apostles present at the crucifixion.
Although the flowers are stunningly beautiful, it’s actually the leaves and stem that are important to herbalisists. They contain flavonoids - a type of anti-oxidant, and essential oil, all mixed with a cocktail of harmala alkaloids. The alkaloid group of compounds includes morphine and caffeine, both well known for their effects on the nervous system. The harmine and passiflorine in the passionflower have a relaxing and calming effect, thought to be a result of the combination of alkaloids and flavanoids.
Although the passionflower has been used to treat nervous complaints for more that 200 years, it is best known today as a sleep aid.
It’s particularly effective for stress related insomnia, but doesn’t have the side effects of sleeping pills, so you can continue to take it throughout the day for general anxiety relief. Its power to combat stress was illustrated by trials in 2001, when it was proved to be just as effective as the conventional anti-depressant oxazepam - but without the side effects.
The remedy is also useful to relieve muscle spasms and can help with the tremors of Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy seizures, asthma spasms and period pains. Its powerful effect on the nervous system is also harnessed to treat pain associated with shingles or sciatica. It’s also prescribed for stress-related high blood pressure and heart palpitations - but it’s important to check with your doctor first.
So if you’re feeling stressed, burned-out and can’t sleep, 1000mg of passionflower three times a day could be the answer for you.
