Passion Flower is a woody vine that bears small berry-like fruit called grandilla. The brightly colored flowers and above-ground portions of the Passion Flower vine are used to derive medicinal compounds that relax the central nervous system and promote emotional balance. In clinical study, the active components of Passion Flower have been shown to provide positive support for:

• Occasional nervousness, nervous tension and anxiety
• Depressed mood and mild to moderate mood changes caused by everyday stress
• Restlessness and occasional sleep difficulties

In the United States, Passion Flower is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the Food and Drug Administration. Substances that receive a GRAS classification have maintained a long, safe history of common use in foods or have been determined to be safe based on proven scientific research.

Phytochemists have isolated multiple components from the above-ground portions of the Passion Flower plant, including several Flavonoids that are believed to exhibit a sedative effect in the central nervous system:

• Vitexin
• Isovitexin
• Chrysin
• Orientin

Chrysin is a monoflavonoid, considered to be the primary active component derived from Passion Flower. In laboratory settings, scientists have demonstrated that Chrysin works as a partial agonist of the central benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. Although the precise mechanism of action is not clearly understood, it is thought that the combination of Flavonoids in Passion Flower contribute to its effectiveness as an anxiolytic, helping to promote relaxation, soothe tension and relieve occasional anxiety and panic caused by emotional stress.

Passion Flower maintains an excellent safety profile when it is used as directed. In the United States, Passion Flower is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the Food and Drug Administration. Substances that receive a GRAS classification have maintained a long, safe history of common use in foods or have been determined to be safe based on proven scientific research. In adults, a dose of 100 to 250 milligrams is recommended for the relief of occasional nervousness, nervous tension and anxiety. It is also recommended for irritability and mild to moderate mood swings caused by everyday stress, restlessness and occasional sleep difficulty. In children between the ages of seven and 13, a dose of 50 to 200 milligrams is recommended to promote relaxation and emotional balance.

Side effects are rare and have been documented as mild to moderate in clinical study. They may include headache, gastrointestinal discomfort, drowsiness or sleep difficulty. In the event that you experience an adverse reaction, discontinue use of this herb. Passion Flower does not cause withdrawal or discontinuation effects.

Passion Flower is generally well tolerated when used by children between the ages of seven and 13. Because each child is unique, Passion Flower should be administered under the supervision of a professional healthcare provider.

Taking Passion Flower in combination with prescription medications such as benzodiazepines, SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) may cause drowsiness. If you are taking a prescription medication, it is recommended that you consult with your prescribing doctor before making any changes or additions to your current treatment plan.

Consult with your healthcare provider before beginning a wellness plan that includes dietary supplements like Passion Flower.