Evidence supporting the use of: Passiflora (unspecified)
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Passiflora, commonly known as passionflower, has a long history of traditional use as a remedy for anxiety, insomnia, and related nervous disorders, particularly in North American and European folk medicine. The aerial parts of various Passiflora species (most notably Passiflora incarnata) have been prepared as teas, tinctures, or extracts. Traditional herbalists have attributed calming and sedative effects to the plant, using it to alleviate symptoms of nervousness and restlessness.

Scientific investigation into Passiflora's effects on anxiety is ongoing. Several small randomized controlled trials have suggested that Passiflora extracts may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties when compared to placebo or pharmaceutical controls, such as oxazepam. A few studies indicate that Passiflora may reduce preoperative anxiety and improve subjective sleep quality. However, these studies often have limitations, including small sample sizes, short durations, and varying preparations of the extract, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions about efficacy and safety.

Systematic reviews generally conclude that while there is some supportive evidence, it is limited and of moderate quality at best. The precise mechanisms of action are not fully understood, but may involve modulation of the GABAergic system. As such, Passiflora is widely used in traditional and complementary medicine for anxiety, but robust, high-quality clinical evidence is still lacking.

More about Passiflora (unspecified)
More about Anxiety Disorders

Other health conditions supported by Passiflora (unspecified)

Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Insomnia
Stress

Products containing Passiflora (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.