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Posted on Dec 30, 2005, 8 p.m.
By Bill Freeman
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Of the hundreds of species of passionflower, the one most commonly used in medicine is Passiflora incarnata, a plant native to North, Central, and South America. Despite its name the Passion flower is not an aphrodisiac. ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING: The Passion flower is well-known for its sedative and anti-anxiety effects, both of which have been confirmed with scientific research.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Of the hundreds of species of passionflower, the one most commonly used in medicine is Passiflora incarnata, a plant native to North, Central, and South America. Despite its name the Passion flower is not an aphrodisiac!
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
The Passion flower is well-known for its sedative and anti-anxiety effects, both of which have been confirmed with scientific research. Animal studies indicate that harmala alkaloids present in the Passion flower appear to relax certain smooth muscles such as those lining the digestive tract and uterus, thus the herb may also be useful as a digestive aid and soothing agent for menstrual discomfort.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
The recommended therapeutic amount of the dried herb is 4-8 grams three times per day. Alternatively, 2-4 ml of Passion flower tincture should be taken per day. European herbalists recommend Passion flower products containing no less than 0.8% total flavonoids.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Some experts advise not to take Passion flower extracts in combination with MAOinhibiting antidepressant drugs. As the Passion flower contains compounds (harman and harmaline) that affect the uterus it should not be taken during pregnancy.
