Passionflower
Passiflora incarnata
also known as Maypop, Purple passionflower, Wild apricot
Moderate (anxiety, sleep)
A climbing vine with intricate flowers, used as a gentle nervous system relaxant and sleep aid.
- Mild anxiolytic and sedative action
- Modulates GABA receptors
- Comparable to oxazepam for generalized anxiety in one trial, with fewer cognitive effects
- Long traditional use across Native American tribes
- Adopted into European herbal medicine after colonization
- Often combined with valerian or lemon balm
Active in Flavonoids (chrysin, vitexin), Alkaloids (harman, harmaline), GABA.
Avoid in pregnancy — may stimulate uterus
Use caution with sedatives, sleep aids, alcohol — additive effects
Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery
Theoretical interaction with MAO inhibitors
Works with
Valerian
Passionflower (GABA-A modulation, chrysin) and valerian (valerenic acid, GABA potentiation) are complementary anxiolytic herbs frequently combined.
Lemon balm
Passionflower and lemon balm are both GABA-modulating calming herbs; combined use appears in several anxiety and sleep formulas with pilot RCT support.
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