The passionflower is not only an exotic and beautiful plant – it has also earned a firm place in natural medicine. Even the indigenous peoples of South America were aware of its relaxing effects. Today, it can be found in many dietary supplements and herbal medicines to support sleep and inner peace.
Passionflower
The passionflower, botanically known as Passiflora edulis, is native to South America but is now cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions. In addition to its decorative flowers, it produces the well-known passion fruit, which is popular in smoothies, juices, and desserts. However, the components used therapeutically are primarily the leaves and flowers – not the fruit.
The plant is usually used as a dry extract, in teas, or capsules. It is primarily known for its calming and anxiolytic properties.
Health benefits
The passionflower is traditionally used for the following ailments:
Stress and nervousness
It has a gently calming effect and can help reduce inner restlessness – without causing drowsiness.
Difficulty falling asleep
In combination with other plants, such as Valerian, passionflower is often used to support natural sleep rhythms.
Mild anxiety
Studies suggest that passionflower extract may have anxiolytic effects – a potential herbal alternative to synthetic remedies.
Muscle relaxation
The plant has a mild antispasmodic effect, which can be helpful in cases of psychosomatic tension.
Research findings
Scientific studies increasingly confirm traditional knowledge:
A randomized, double-blind study (Akhondzadeh et al., 2001) showed that passionflower extract can be as effective as a low-dose benzodiazepine for generalized anxiety disorders – but without the typical side effects such as addiction or drowsiness.
Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11679026/
Several studies have also been conducted investigating the calming effects of Passiflora on the central nervous system. The authors emphasize the plant's potential as a safe, herbal alternative for mild anxiety disorders and sleep problems.
Studies: https://apcz.umk.pl/QS/article/view/56361
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32765195/
Important: The effect can vary from individual to individual, and the data is still limited in some areas – but promising.
Fun Fact
The name "passion flower" goes back to Christian missionaries who saw the extraordinary flower as symbols of Christ's Passion – for example, the five stamens as Jesus' wounds or the thread-like crowns as the crown of thorns.
Our Product
We offer several extracts from the flower, plant, and fruit. Please contact us for your non-binding offer.
Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies to scientifically prove them. Therefore, not all statements can currently be accepted by conventional medicine.