|
The passionflower herb is a beautiful plant with brilliant colored flowers that grows in North America, South America, Africa, and Southern Asia. The passionflower fruit is edible and is often used to make juice. Many species of passionflower grow as a vine, while some grow in a bush. The main active flavanoids found in the passionflower is called Chrysin, which promotes relaxation of the nervous system and prevents or soothes tension. The passionflower contains several flavanoids and alkaloids, which all work together to promote well-being. 
Passion Flower Uses Passionflower was first used by the Native Americans. The passionflower leaves and roots are used dried or fresh to make tea. That tea can be taken to relive symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and epilepsy. It’s also known for its painkilling and anti-depressant properties. The passionflower has been effective in relieving anxiety and panic attacks, irritability, mood swings, and restlessness. It’s a great stress reliever. As a result of these relaxing properties, passionflower can be used in the treatment of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), alcohol withdrawal or drug detoxification, nervous stomach, wrinkle prevention, anti-seizure or anti-spasm, high blood pressure, and nerve pain. For women, the passionflower is a powerful relaxant and reliever of PMS (premenstrual syndrome), hot flashes during menopause, and vaginal discharge. Epileptics can gain great comfort from passionflower as it relieves epileptic seizures and spasms, and calms the nervous system. Since most treatments for insomnia require addictive substances, passionflower is a good alternative. This herb is non-addictive and relaxes the body and promotes sleep. Passionflower Dosage The proper amount of passionflower for adults is between 100 mg to 200 mg daily. Children can take 75 mg to 150 mg daily between the ages of seven and thirteen. Passionflower can be consumed in several different ways including tea, juice, concentrate, and capsule form.
When taking passionflower make sure to check the label of the product to see what other herbs or medicines are being used in the concoction. Some herbs have adverse side effects, especially when combined with other chemicals or herbs. Your best bet is to find a tea or extract with passionflower as its sole ingredient. That way you can lessen the likelihood of adverse reactions. Passionflower Side Effects While passionflower is considered to be a very safe herb, a few side effects have been reported. Nausea, vomiting, and rapid heart rate are possible side effects. More normally drowsiness and mental slowing have been reported so you must take the proper precautions when taking passionflower to avoid driving or operating other equipment. Allergic reactions can occur including hives or runny nose. Passionflower is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women or children under the age of three. If you need something to help you relax or help you sleep better, a passionflower liquid, tea, tablet or extract concentrate can do the trick. Make sure to heed the warnings for the herb before taking, but all in all it is a relatively safe herb that serves several medicinal purposes.
|
