Passionflower, one of the most beautiful flowers I’ve ever had the pleasure to see in person, and a Florida native! The flower usually blooms along climbing vines. This herb is cooling to the body, calming to the mind, and soothing to the spirit.
My personal favorite thing about Passionflower is the story & meaning behind it; In the 1500’s, it was discovered and made it’s way into the hands of Spanish missionaries who saw the flower as a physical representation of the crucifixion of Jesus. The three stigmas represented the 'nails of crucifixion', the coronal filaments were the 'crown of thorns', the five stamens were the wounds, and the ten sepals were representative of ten of the disciples (Judas and Peter got left out for being the betrayer and denier). The tendrils also represent the whips used by Jesus’ torturers. This flower was used as a teaching tool to tell the story of Jesus to the indigenous people, and was named by the missionaries because of the Passion of Christ.
OVERVIEW
HOW IT WORKS WITH THE BODY
Passionflower has a depressant effect on the central nervous system, making it ideal for insomnia, anxiety, nervous tension, irritability, muscle spasms, headaches, neuralgia, and restlessness.
It boosts the level of GABA in the brain, a natural brain relaxant that makes us feel good. Increasing GABA can also help with the prevention and treatment of other health issues, since the symptoms associated with low levels of GABA are sleep and mood disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Although it’s not considered an herb that acts on the heart, it has significant calming effects on the heart by relieving tachycardia, palpitations, and even heart rhythm problems.
It can help reduce symptoms associated with ADHD and general hyperactivity in both children and adults.
Improves circulation throughout the entire body.
It has a positive effect on the treatment of seizures and epilepsy due to its anticonvulsant actions. Some epilepsy medications actually contain passionflower!
It helps reduce asthma & anxiety induce lung ailments such as shortness of breath or air hunger.
Passionflower is a great ally in times where you feel that your mind is racing and you can’t seem to turn your thoughts off. It serves as a way to “get out of your head”.
CAUTIONS
Avoid during pregnancy. May interact with other sedative medications.
It’s always best to try new herbs in small amounts and to consult with your physician prior to taking any new herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.
Check out our offerings that contain Passionflower:
*Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for professional medical/health advice. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Before taking any actions based upon such information, it is encouraged to consult with the appropriate professionals. Please consult with your physician prior to the use of any herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking any medications.