Passion Flower Aerial Extract
Also known as: Passionflower, maypop, Passion Flower Aerial Extract, Passiflora incarnata
Overview
Passiflora incarnata aerial extract is derived from the above-ground parts (leaves, stems, flowers) of the passionflower plant. It is traditionally used for its calming and anxiolytic properties, primarily targeting anxiety, stress, and insomnia. While it has also been explored for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antitussive effects, clinical evidence is strongest and most mature for its neuropsychiatric applications. Research on P. incarnata includes several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and a recent systematic review/meta-analysis, consistently supporting its anxiolytic effects. The extract is available in various forms, including syrups, tablets, and standardized extracts, often focusing on flavonoid content. Its mechanism of action involves modulating the GABAergic system, offering a unique anxiolytic pathway without significant sedative or psychomotor impairment.
Benefits
The primary benefit of Passiflora incarnata aerial extract is its significant anxiolytic effect. It has been shown to reduce preoperative and general anxiety levels effectively, with studies demonstrating comparable or superior efficacy to standard anxiolytics like oxazepam, but with fewer side effects. For instance, research indicates that 500 mg of P. incarnata can reduce preoperative anxiety better than oxazepam, without impairing psychomotor or cognitive functions. This makes it particularly useful for adults undergoing surgery. While there is some evidence for sleep enhancement in animal models, human data are less conclusive. Additionally, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects have been observed in in vitro and animal studies, though their clinical relevance requires further investigation. The anxiety-reducing effects are observed acutely, within 30 minutes to hours, and can be sustained in studies lasting up to 30 days, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) compared to placebo.
How it works
Passiflora incarnata primarily exerts its anxiolytic effects by modulating the GABAergic system in the brain. It achieves this by inhibiting GABA uptake in cortical synaptosomes, which increases the availability of GABA, a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. While it modulates GABA-A and GABA-B receptors, it does not bind to the benzodiazepine or ethanol sites on GABA-A receptors, suggesting a unique mechanism of action distinct from traditional benzodiazepines. This unique interaction contributes to its anxiolytic properties without causing significant sedation or psychomotor impairment. The extract does not appear to have significant effects on hemodynamics at anxiolytic doses. The exact bioavailability and pharmacokinetics in humans are not fully characterized, but its effects are observed relatively quickly after administration.
Side effects
Passiflora incarnata aerial extract is generally considered safe, with clinical trials reporting no serious adverse effects. Common side effects are rare and typically mild, with no significant sedation, respiratory depression, or psychomotor impairment observed at anxiolytic doses. Allergic reactions or hypersensitivity have not been reported in controlled studies. While no significant drug interactions have been documented, caution is advised when combining it with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants due to the potential for additive effects. Specific contraindications are not well-established, but due to insufficient data, use in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should be approached with caution. Overall, its safety profile is favorable, making it a well-tolerated option for anxiety management.
Dosage
For anxiolytic effects, the minimum effective dose of Passiflora incarnata extract in clinical studies is approximately 500 mg. Optimal doses typically range from 500 mg to 700 mg. This dosage is usually administered about 30 minutes before anxiety-inducing events, such as surgical procedures. There is no established maximum safe dose, as clinical trials have not reported dose-limiting toxicity. The timing of administration is crucial for acute anxiety relief, with effects observed shortly after intake. Passiflora incarnata is available in various formulations, including syrups, tablets, and standardized extracts, with no clear superiority among these forms. It's important to note that these guidelines are based on clinical studies, and individual responses may vary.
FAQs
Is passionflower extract safe for anxiety?
Yes, clinical trials indicate that passionflower extract is safe and effective for reducing anxiety without causing significant sedation or cognitive impairment, making it a well-tolertolerated option.
How quickly does it work?
The anxiolytic effects of passionflower extract can be observed relatively quickly, typically within 30 minutes to an hour after administration, especially when taken before an anxiety-inducing event.
Can it replace benzodiazepines?
Passionflower extract may serve as an alternative for mild to moderate anxiety with fewer side effects than benzodiazepines. However, it should not abruptly replace prescribed medications without consulting a healthcare professional.
Does it cause sedation?
No, significant sedation has not been reported at the anxiolytic doses of passionflower extract used in clinical studies, distinguishing it from many conventional anxiolytics.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7766837/ – This systematic review by Janda et al. (2020) analyzed 9 RCTs and concluded that Passiflora incarnata significantly reduces anxiety across various neuropsychiatric conditions. It highlights the extract's safety profile, noting no adverse cognitive effects, and supports its use for anxiety management. The review provides a comprehensive overview of the current evidence.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/passion-flower.html – This source provides general information on Passion Flower, including its traditional uses and some scientific findings. It corroborates the anxiolytic properties and mentions its application in reducing preoperative anxiety, aligning with the findings of studies like Azimaraghi et al. (cited within the research content).
- https://applications.emro.who.int/imemrf/J_Med_Plants/J_Med_Plants_2013_12_45_1_6.pdf – This RCT by Hajiaghaee & Akhondzadeh (2013) investigated Passiflora incarnata in 60 patients undergoing spinal anesthesia. It found significant anxiety reduction without psychomotor impairment, providing mechanistic insights into its GABAergic action. The study supports the extract's efficacy and safety in a clinical setting.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33352740/ – This PubMed entry likely refers to the Janda et al. (2020) systematic review, which is a key source for the efficacy and safety of Passiflora incarnata. It summarizes the findings that passionflower reduces anxiety significantly and is safe, without adverse cognitive effects, based on a review of multiple randomized controlled trials.
