PASSION FLOWER FOR A GOODNIGHT SLEEP

Passiflora, also known  as the passion flowers or passion vines, is a genus of about 550 species of flowering plants, the type genus of the family Passifloraceae. Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine with white and purple flowers and has documented therapeutic properties. 

The chemicals in passion flower have calming effects. The literature data suggest that the passionflower itself, as well as its preparations, helps reduce stress and can therefore be helpful in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety, and depression. 

HISTORY OF PASSION FLOWER 

Passionflower is native to the Southeastern United States, Central America and South America. The “passion” in passion flower actually refers to the passion of Christ. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Spanish missionaries in Peru saw the unusual flower as a symbol of the crucifixion. The blue and white colors of the flower were thought to stand for heaven and purity, the radial filaments symbolized the crown of thorns, and the tendrils represented Roman whips. 

Spanish missionaries and other European settlers promoted passionflower as a medicinal herb throughout their migrations, and by the 18th century, the plant had gained such wide recognition that botanists began singing its praises around the world. 

In the pre-Columbian era, Native American tribes of the Southeast used passionflower as food and herbal medicine to heal bruises and cuts. It is still used today by modern day herbalists as a powerful nervine tonic to treat anxiety and insomnia. Passion flower can also be used as a flavoring in foods. 

Scientists believe passionflower works by increasing levels of a chemical called gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA lowers the activity of some brain cells, making you feel more relaxed. 

PASSION FLOWER TEA 

Known as a nervine in herbalism, or an herb that supports the nervous system, a cup of passionflower tea soothes the nervous system, eases an anxious mind, and promotes a good night’s sleep. Passion flower's anxiolytic effects can be felt within 30-90 minutes. 

If can be used as a sleep enhancement if taken as a tea 30 minutes before bedtime. For liquid extracts, dosages typically range from 30–60 drops diluted in water per day. 

Passion Flower Tea Recipe: 

1. 1-2 tsp dried passionflower 
2. 1 cup water 
3. Steep dried passionflower in hot water for 6-8 minutes. Steep for 10-15 minutes for a stronger tea and more potential benefits. 
4. Strain or take tea bag out of water. 
5. Sweeten with a touch of honey (optional)

It's possibly safe when taken as a tea for 7 nights, or as a medicine for up to 8 weeks. According to the NCCIH , passionflower is generally considered safe. It may cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. 

MEDICAL USES OF PASSION FLOWER 

Animal studies have found that administration of passion flower extract reduces nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Passion Flower is known to be a muscle relaxant, easing away tension. Passion Flower works well in reducing dental anxiety too. In fact, it's been labeled as effective as some conventional medicines given to patients before undergoing certain medical procedures. 

Passiflora contains many different alkaloid compounds and the most studied is harmine. Harmine is a beta-carboline alkaloid known to possess a variety of pharmacological effects. It helps slow the breakdown of neurotransmitters, improves insulin sensitivity, relaxes blood vessels, encourages bone health, and supports a balanced mood.

Passionflower is promoted as a dietary supplement for anxiety and sleep problems, as well as for pain, Lowers Blood Pressure, Anxiety/Depression, night sweats, heart rhythm problems, menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is applied to the skin for burns and to treat hemorrhoids. 

Passionflower contains many antioxidants, including vitamin C and lycopene, that neutralize the damaging free radicals that come from the ultraviolet rays and pollution. In other words, they protect skin cells and their DNA from the aging effects of the sun. 

PASSION FLOWER SEED OIL

Passion Flower Seed Oil can be used as a light, non-greasy carrier oil for an aromatherapy bath or massage. Just choose your favorite essential oils, dilute and use for a regenerating and replenishing massage or relaxing bath. 

Passion Flower Seed Oil blends well with other carrier oils if you want a thicker more luxurious consistency. Passion Flower Seed Oil can also be used in homemade, natural skin and hair preparations or applied directly to the skin. 

PASSION FLOWER AVAILABLE FORMS 

• Passion fruit can be eaten raw
• Passion flower powder form, can be used to make many recipes
• Passion fruit can be used to made juice, jams, dessert toppings, and smoothies
• Passion flower leaves, flowers, and stem can be dried or used to make powders, tinctures, infusions, and extracts.
• Passion flower herbal tea can be used as a sleep aid.
• Passion flower can also be found in nutritional supplements, both by itself and blended with other botanicals 

DO NOT take passionflower if you are pregnant, suffering from liver damage/disease or breastfeeding. Due to its sedative effects, driving or operating machinery is not recommended after consuming Passion Flower. Passion Flower can interfere with blood thinning and blood pressure medications. If you are taking any medication, please consult your health care practitioner. For others, passionflower is generally considered to be safe and nontoxic in recommended doses and for less than 2 months at a time.  

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