With a name like passion flower, it can only be something kind, gentle and calming from nature. While that doesn’t hold true for all sweet names, it does hold true for the passion flower, a wildflower of striking beauty that produces a fleshy fruit. It is part of the Passiflora family, which also includes passion fruit.People have used one variety of passionflower, Passiflora incarnata (P. incarnata), since the 16th century for medicinal purposes.Some researchers believe that passionflower supplements may help treat anxiety, insomnia, and certain forms of pain because it may increase levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical the brain makes to help regulate mood.
May Help Reduce the Effects of Menopause
Menopause is associated with feeling of anxiety and depression, which is often caused by low levels of amma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a chemical in the brain. Hormone therapy that relies on modern medicine can create a lot of unwanted side effects. Studies have been conducted that show that passion flower can treat menopausal symptoms such hot flashes and night sweats, insomnia, depression, anger, headaches, and may be a great alternative to conventional hormone therapy.
Reduce Anxiety
Passion flower may be helpful in reducing anxiety and has long been known as a folk remedy. It’s believed that certain compounds found in passion flower may interact with some receptors in the brain provoking relaxation. Because passion increases GABA, the activity of some brain cells that may be causing anxiety is lowered and makes you feel more relaxed.
Improves Your Sleep
Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your body, and we all love a good night’s sleep. Studies were conducted of patients who had problems sleeping. The study, focusing on patients with bipolar disorder, tested various natural herbal medicines to include passion flower, and the results showed an improvement in sleep, maybe by reducing anxiety.
Reduces Inflammation
Reducing inflammation throughout the body is what many organic acids and antioxidants are best at, and the compounds found in passionflower essential oil are no exception. This tea has long been recommended for joint disorders and arthritis, as well as gout, hemorrhoids, and inflammation of the gut. These soothing active ingredients can help relieve symptoms of indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and cramping, as well as chronic inflammation caused by free radical activity.
Improves Heart Health
The blood pressure-lowering qualities of passionflower essential oil are well known and are the result of a specific antioxidant compound known as edulilic acid. By treating hypertension, this tea can help prevent atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke and coronary heart disease, and generally, reduce the strain on the cardiovascular system. This effect can also help relieve headaches and migraines, by reducing the pressure and inflammation in capillaries near the temples.
Curb Addiction
Some people have turned to passionflower essential oil to curb drug addiction, by soothing the symptoms of withdrawal, improving mood and reducing anxiety. Furthermore, anecdotal evidence points to passionflower ability to reduce nicotine cravings, making it important for those trying to quit smoking.
Sleep Disorders
This essential oil has long been used to treat sleep disorders, such as insomnia or restlessness at night. By impacting the neurotransmitter levels in the brain with flavonoids and other phytochemicals, you can enjoy a full night of undisturbed sleep and a refreshed feeling in the morning!
