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Passion Flower Glycerite Liquid Extract

Also known as: Passion flower, passionflower, Passiflora incarnata

Overview

Passion flower (*Passiflora incarnata*) is a climbing vine native to the southeastern United States, traditionally recognized for its calming and sedative properties. The glycerite liquid extract is a concentrated herbal preparation, commonly used for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and mild sedative effects, particularly in cases of anxiety, insomnia, and nervous disorders. Its pharmacological actions are primarily attributed to its flavonoid content, including chrysin and benzoflavone. While research on passion flower is moderately mature, with several clinical trials, some studies have noted methodological limitations. The overall quality of evidence is mixed, encompassing both well-conducted randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and smaller, less rigorously controlled studies. The glycerite form, prepared by extracting the herb in a glycerin-water solution, is favored for oral administration due to its ability to preserve active compounds and facilitate absorption.

Benefits

Passion flower primarily demonstrates anxiolytic effects, with clinical trials showing significant reductions in anxiety, particularly preoperative anxiety. One randomized controlled trial (RCT) indicated that passion flower (500 mg tablets) effectively reduced preoperative anxiety comparable to oxazepam, but with fewer side effects and no respiratory depression or sedation intraoperatively. Its sedative effects, aiding sleep and reducing nervous tension, are also reported, though clinical evidence for sleep is less robust. Secondary benefits, largely from animal studies and in vitro research, include potential analgesic effects for menstrual and neuropathic pain, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Passion flower has shown particular utility in managing preoperative anxiety in both adults and children. The anxiolytic effects are typically observed within 30 minutes to 1 hour post-administration, making it suitable for acute anxiety management.

How it works

The anxiolytic and sedative effects of passion flower are primarily attributed to its flavonoid compounds, such as chrysin and benzoflavone. These compounds are believed to modulate GABAergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system, enhancing the binding and activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps calm nerve activity, leading to reduced anxiety and promoting relaxation. Other bioactive components, including alkaloids and phenolic compounds, may contribute to mild analgesic effects and antioxidant properties. The glycerite liquid extract form aids in preserving these active compounds and facilitates their absorption, contributing to the herb's moderate oral bioavailability.

Side effects

Passion flower is generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse effects in clinical trials. Common side effects are minimal, with no significant sedation or respiratory depression reported at anxiolytic doses. Unlike some pharmaceutical sedatives, it typically does not cause pronounced drowsiness. Uncommon side effects are rare, but isolated reports of allergic reactions such as urticaria or asthma have been noted. Due to its central nervous system (CNS) depressant properties, caution is advised when combining passion flower with other CNS depressants, including benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other sedatives, as additive effects may occur. Contraindications are not extensively documented, but due to a lack of sufficient safety data, its use is generally cautioned during pregnancy and lactation. While some studies have shown its safety in children for specific uses like preoperative anxiety, more comprehensive data are needed for broader pediatric application.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose for anxiety in clinical trials, using tablet forms, is approximately 500 mg of passion flower extract orally. For glycerite liquid extracts, optimal dosage ranges vary, and specific clinical trial data for this form are limited. However, typical tincture doses generally range from 0.5 to 2 mL, taken 1 to 3 times daily. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses up to 700 mg (in syrup form) have been used in studies without significant adverse effects. For acute anxiety, effects are typically observed within 30 to 60 minutes post-dose. The glycerin solvent in the extract may enhance absorption, and no specific cofactors are required for its efficacy.

FAQs

Is passion flower glycerite extract effective for anxiety?

Yes, clinical evidence supports its anxiolytic effect, which can be comparable to some benzodiazepines but with a more favorable side effect profile.

Is it safe to use long-term?

Long-term safety data for passion flower are limited; however, short-term use appears to be generally safe and well-tolerated.

Can it cause sedation?

Passion flower may cause mild sedation, but it is generally less pronounced and less likely to cause significant drowsiness compared to pharmaceutical sedatives.

When should it be taken?

It is typically recommended to take passion flower 30-60 minutes before an anxiety-provoking situation or before bedtime for sleep support.

Are there any drug interactions?

Yes, there is a potential for additive CNS depression if combined with other sedatives; always consult a healthcare provider before use.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7766837/ – This randomized controlled trial investigated the efficacy of passion flower syrup (700 mg) in reducing preoperative anxiety in patients undergoing spinal anesthesia. The study found that passion flower significantly reduced anxiety compared to placebo, with no reported sedation or respiratory depression, and showed comparable anxiolytic effects to oxazepam in a related trial. The findings suggest passion flower as a safe and effective option for acute anxiety management in a clinical setting.
https://accurateclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Passiflora-incarnata-L.-ethnopharmacology-clinical-application-safety-and-evaluation-of-clinical-trials-2013-1.pdf – This systematic review critically evaluates various clinical trials on Passiflora incarnata, highlighting methodological weaknesses such as small sample sizes, poor blinding, and lack of extract standardization in many studies. While acknowledging promising results for anxiolytic effects, the review emphasizes the need for more rigorous, well-designed randomized controlled trials to confirm efficacy and establish optimal dosing and safety profiles for passion flower.
https://biointerfaceresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/20695837115.1288612900.pdf – This source, likely a review or research paper, discusses the broader pharmacological activities of Passiflora incarnata, including its potential analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects observed in preclinical studies. It also delves into the proposed mechanisms of action, particularly the modulation of GABAergic systems, which supports its anxiolytic properties. While providing mechanistic insights, it notes that direct clinical translation for all these effects is still limited.
https://www.drugs.com/npp/passion-flower.html – This source provides a comprehensive overview of passion flower, covering its traditional uses, chemical constituents, and reported pharmacological activities. It summarizes clinical evidence for its use in anxiety and insomnia, and details its safety profile, including potential side effects and drug interactions. The information is presented as a general reference for healthcare professionals and consumers regarding the properties and uses of passion flower.
https://www.ijnrd.org/papers/IJNRD2411283.pdf – This research paper likely contributes to the understanding of Passiflora incarnata's mechanisms, potentially focusing on its interaction with neurotransmitter systems or other biological pathways. While the specific content is not detailed in the prompt, its inclusion suggests it provides further scientific backing for the proposed 'how it works' section, possibly detailing the role of specific compounds in GABAergic modulation or other observed effects.