Remedies Using Passionflower Herb

Passionflower herb from the passiflora incarnata species is also known as ocoee, maypop and wild apricot. The flowers, leaves and stems of this plant have been used as a traditional medicine in Central America, Mexico, Texas and Europe. Another species which is also popular is blue passion flower or common passion flower from the passiflora caerulea species.

Passion flower is used as a remedy for insomnia and seizures. Based on scientific studies, researchers found that the plant chemicals in passiflora incarnata are able to raise the levels of gamma aminobutyric acid or GABA in the brain. This amino acid helps lower certain activities in the brain cells and produce calming and sedative effects.

Passion flower extract has also been tested to treat the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. The result indicated that passion flower was able to reduce fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, rapid heartbeat and sleeping difficulties which are the common symptoms of GAD.

Trials done on rats showed that passion flower extract lowered systolic blood pressure. Even though it wasn't tested on humans, there is potential that passion flower may help manage blood pressure levels.

Other uses of passion flower include providing relief for diarrhea, fibromyalgia, menstrual cramps, migraine headaches and stomach cramps.

One of the easiest ways to consume it is to drink passion flower tea by steeping half teaspoon of the dried herbs or passion flower powder for a few minutes. You can also take the extract which is available in capsules, liquid extract and tinctures. Adding the fresh or dried flowers in your bath is therapeutic and can help you feel relaxed.

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Passionflower Herb to Various Home Remedies