The Benefits of Passionflower for Anxiety
Many people suffering from anxiety are turning to non-traditional medicine. Highly valued in helping anxiety is the passionflower.
The passionflower is locally found in the south-eastern parts of North America. It is a vine that produces flowers and berries that are shaped like eggs. Its pulp is sweet. The flowers, leaves, and stems are used as a sedative and cure to anxiety.
Although it is not well understood why passionflower works and what the active ingredients are responsible for its effect, it is considered a useful and safe medicinal plant. It used to be readily available over-the-counter as a sedative and sleeping aid until its banning by the US Food and Drug Administration in 1978.
Even if its use is not sanctioned, there are still many who use it for anxiety instead of prescription drugs. Users claim that passionflower is non-addictive, non-sedating, and does not cause mental and physical impairment. Even those recovering from heroin addiction attest to the benefits of passionflower.
Passionflower is not for those who want instant relief. Those who have tried its use claim that it will take a while for its effects to set in. It happens over time, about a month of constant use. But because of its long-term effectiveness, it is still preferred by many.
The Uses of Passionflower
Any part of the passionflower found above its roots is usable. It can be bought as a pill. It is also available dried and ready to be prepared in the form that you wish.
The passionflower can be taken as a tea drink. For every pint of boiling water, use ½ ounce of dried leaves. Let the brew stand for 5 to 10 minutes. The tea drink can be taken three times in a day.
The passionflower can also be taken as a fluid extract or tincture. As a tincture, for adults use 10 to 60 drops up to three times a day. To make a tincture, the ratio is one part passionflower to five parts 45% alcohol. If you prefer a fluid extract, it can be made in the following proportion: equal parts of passionflower and 25% alcohol. Adults can take 10 to 30 drops of this extract up to three times in the course of a day.
Because of its safety, the passionflower in tea form can be administered to children. See an herbalist for the correct dosage. This will vary according to the child’s weight.
Generally, passionflower provides benefits for those suffering from anxiety. But just like any drug and other herbal remedies, care should be taken. Patients should be monitored as to adverse side effects and allergic reactions. It is best to inform your doctor of any herbal medicines you are taking. He will be in the best position to tell you if passionflower is contra-indicated with the medicines you are taking.
