Passionflower Tincture

Passionflower – (Passiflora incarnata)

Traditionally valued for: Calming the Mind | Easing Tension | Supporting Restful Sleep | Easing Restlessness,  Worry or Mental Overactivity.

Active Constituents

• Flavonoids (vitexin, isovitexin, orientin, apigenin) – contribute to anxiolytic and mild sedative effects.
• Harmala alkaloids (harmine, harmaline) – act as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in very small, non-toxic amounts, potentially influencing mood-regulating neurotransmitters.
• Chrysin – a flavonoid with GABA-modulating and anti-anxiety properties.
• Glycosides – contribute to antioxidant and mild anti-inflammatory activity.
• Polysaccharides – may contribute to immunomodulatory effects.

Traditional Herbal Properties

• Nervine relaxant
• Mild sedative
• Anxiolytic (anti-anxiety)
• Antispasmodic (especially in smooth muscle tension)
• Hypnotic (promotes sleep)
• Thymoleptic (gently uplifts mood)

Traditional Uses

Passionflower has a long history of use in both European and Native American herbal traditions for:

• Restlessness and nervous tension
• Insomnia due to mental chatter or worry
• Anxiety related to overwork, emotional strain, or life transitions
• Menopausal anxiety and mood changes
• Muscle tension and spasms linked to stress
• Support during withdrawal from sedatives or other substances (as part of a broader plan)
• Mild mood disturbances when associated with nervous exhaustion

Scientific Insights

Modern studies suggest Passionflower may:

• Modulate GABA receptors, enhancing calming neurotransmission.
• Reduce subjective anxiety in both situational and generalized anxiety conditions.
• Improve sleep quality without next-day grogginess in mild insomnia.
• Provide synergistic benefits when combined with other calming herbs such as Valerian or Lemon Balm.

Energetic & Spiritual Qualities

Passionflower carries a cooling, soothing energy that helps quiet the heart and mind. Spiritually, it is seen as a “bridge” herb—helping one move from overwhelm to stillness, and from chaos to clarity.

Dosage

Take 3 x daily in a small amount of water or every 2 hours as needed for calm or 1 hour before bedtime as a sleep aid.

Adult 12 years and older: 20 drops

Child 6 to 12 years: 10 drops

Contraindications

• Avoid in pregnancy unless under professional supervision.
• Use with caution if taking sedatives, anti-anxiety medication, or MAO-inhibiting drugs—may enhance effects.
• Not recommended for those with very low blood pressure unless advised by a practitioner.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or have a medical condition.