passion flower
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Passionflower

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers learned of passionflower in Peru. Native people in the Americas used passionflower as a mild sedative. Today, it is used for anxiety and sleep issues, as well as for pain, heart rhythm problems, menopausal symptoms and ADHD. It can also be applied to the skin for burns and to treat hemorrhoids.

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› Health benefits

Passionflower’s effects on anxiety and other conditions haven’t been studied extensively. A 2007 review of two older studies compared the ability of passionflower and two drugs to reduce anxiety. It concluded that the three substances had about the same degree of effectiveness, which was minimal.

› How much do I need?

The dosage varies depending on age and what it is being used for. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels, and consult your pharmacist, physician or other healthcare professional before using.

Passionflower is generally safe but can cause drowsiness. It should not be used during pregnancy, because it may induce contractions.

› As a supplement

Passionflower is available dried and as a liquid extract, capsule or tablet.


Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Please consult your health care provider before making changes to your vitamin/supplement regimen.

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