PART 2. THE HERBS
PASSIONFLOWER
PASSIFLORA
Meet Mother Nature’s wonder flower whose compounds have calming, sleep-inducing effects. In fact, the plant was once FDA-approved as an over-the-counter remedy for insomnia and sedation, but due to lack of evidence about its safety and effectiveness, it was pulled from the market in 1978. If you want those effects now, simply brew some passionflower tea, stash some of the fresh herbs under your pillow, and let the Zzzs begin.
Did You Know?
Passionflower may also be Mother Nature’s remedy for psychological and brain issues related to anxiety, mood, stress, and related disorders. One study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics showed the plant extract was effective at managing anxiety without the impact on job performance that exists with the traditional pharmaceuticals. Another study showed the herb was effective in reducing stress associated with undergoing surgery.
Herbal Power
MEDICINAL: Treats insomnia, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, asthma, menopausal symptoms, irregular heartbeat, fibromyalgia, seizures, hemorrhoids, anxiety, stress, and nervousness; eases drug withdrawal.
COSMETIC: Skin, hair, and scalp.
Application Methods
•Apply as an oil, salve, or tincture
•Drink as a tea
Precautions
Passionflower is generally considered safe with a few exceptions. Avoid if pregnant as the herb has been known to cause uterine contractions. Also avoid two to three weeks prior to surgery as it may increase the effects of anesthesia in the brain.
Other Names
Apricot Vine
Maypop
Purple Passion Flower
Water Lemon
Wild Passion Flower
Locating & Growing
Passionflower is pretty easy going when it comes to planting and doesn’t really ask for much: some sunlight or partial shade, a warmish climate (though it’s known to withstand Zone-5 winter temps), and moist soil.