The great remedy for grief in naturopathy—Christian missionaries recognized the stigmata of Christ in the flower and made it a medicinal plant for the suffering heart.
Interesting facts about passionflower
- Fruit = passion fruit (a popular tropical fruit).
- Yellow spots on the flower mimic insect eggs—botanical mimicry.
- Medicinal Plant of the Year 2011.
Effects & Properties
Indole alkaloids (Harman, Harmin): calm the central nervous system and shift the autonomic nervous system toward the parasympathetic branch. Chrysin (Flavonoid): binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain—relieving anxiety without the side effects of synthetic benzodiazepines.
Features: calming, anxiety-relieving, sleep-inducing, antispasmodic, balancing, blood pressure-regulating.
Applications
Passionflower for sleep disorders
Sleep disturbances caused by racing thoughts and inner restlessness occur when the parasympathetic nervous system is unable to take control in the evening. The indole alkaloids in passionflower strengthen the parasympathetic nervous system and curb the excessive activity of the sympathetic nervous system. The racing thoughts stop, the body relaxes, and sleep gently sets in—without the drowsiness associated with synthetic sleep aids.
Passionflower for Grief
Passionflower is the classic remedy for grief in naturopathy. Acute grief plunges the nervous system into a state of emotional overwhelm—making it nearly impossible to function. The indole alkaloids and chrysin help cushion the emotional shock: the sense of overwhelm subsides, allowing the person to retain their ability to function and gradually process their grief.
Passionflower for Anxiety
In anxiety disorders, the brain enters a vicious cycle: anxiety causes tension, and tension intensifies the anxiety. Chrysin breaks this cycle through its affinity for benzodiazepine receptors: anxiety subsides, emotional distance from triggers increases, and the person affected regains control. Without the risk of dependence or cognitive impairment.
Passionflower for nervous exhaustion
Nervous exhaustion occurs when chronic stress suppresses the parasympathetic nervous system to such an extent that the nervous system can no longer regenerate. Passionflower helps the exhausted parasympathetic nervous system recover: the nervous system finally gets the rest it needs to recover. Stability and resilience gradually return.
Instructions for Use
Often found in blends with valerian, hops, and lemon balm. Also available as a tea. Used as a short course of treatment for chronic nervous disorders.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Safe to use—even if you're feeling anxious or having trouble sleeping during pregnancy.
Plant Profile
- Scientific name: Passionflower
- Plant family: Passiflora family (Passifloraceae)
- Flowering period: July through August
- Origin: South and Central America
- Toxicity: Non-toxic
