Passion flower is an herbal supplement colloquially known for a variety of benefits. In this article, we take a look at the origins and potential uses of this affordable, natural supplement.
What Is Passion Flower?
Passion flower is a vine that is native to the southeastern United States, and Central and South America. All of the above-ground parts of passion flower, including the stems, leaves, and flowers, are used in passion flower supplements. Passion flower has a variety of potential known benefits, many of which are related to its common description as a relaxation aid. While the purported benefits are not proven by scientific evidence, but some of them do have a modicum of evidence to support them. All of them have been commonly attributed to passion flower by those who take it.
"Relaxing" Benefits of Passion Flower
Alleviating insomnia is a common benefit attributed to passion flower. There is some research to suggest that low doses of passion flower might bring relief to adults experiencing short-term sleep issues. If you are experiencing insomnia that is relatively minor and not long-term, consider trying passion flower, as it may help. Discuss with your doctor first, though, as you would with anything new offering purported benefits.
Relieving anxiety is a potential benefit of passion flower. While the evidence is not wide-ranging or conclusive there are a number of small studies out there to support this.
Relieving stress is a potential benefit of passion flower that is not directly supported by scientific evidence. If you are seeking to reduce your stress level, consider taking a passion flower supplement, in addition to other lifestyle and nutritional factors that play a part in reducing stress.
Other Potential Benefits of Passion Flower
Reducing inflammation is another benefit of passion flower, due to compounds contained within the plant. As a result, passion flower might be useful in treating arthritis (which often occurs due to inflammation), as well as inflammation occurring in the gut and digestive tract.
Bolstering heart health is a potential benefit of passion flower due to the fact that it contains an antioxidant known as edulilic acid. Because of this, it has the potential to help lower blood pressure, which is beneficial both for people who have good cardiovascular health, as well as those who aren't. Easing pain due to common, non-severe symptoms such as menstrual cramps, muscle discomfort, and headaches might come about from taking passion flower. This is because passion flower possesses an "antispasmodic" effect , meaning that it might help reduce involuntary muscle spasms.