Passion Flower (passiflora incarnata) is an exotic looking flower, and it is used as a calming herb, despite it’s name. Passion Flower was named after the Passion of Christ because the flower seemed to have symbols of the crucifixion. It is a very useful herb, and can be taken as a pill, tincture, or infusion (tea).

Passion flower is most commonly used as an anti-anxiety herb. It has a soothing sedative effect. It can also be used for problems with insomnia. It has been used to help with seizures, lower blood pressure and to relieve muscle tension as well. It also works well as a cough suppressant, relaxing the muscles of the throat. Which makes it wonderful to take before bed if you have a cough and want to be able to take a break from coughing and get some sleep.

Passion flower has been used as a calming herb and sleep aid for over 200 years. One scientific study found passion flower as effective as oxazepam for treating general anxiety. It is approved by the German Commission E for use as a treatment for nervousness and insomnia. Passion flower is considered safe when used in moderation, however it may interact with prescription medications, specifically sedatives, blood thinners, and MAO inhibitors. It can increase the effects of these drugs.

Another common name for Passion Flower is Maypop. It can be found growing wild in certain areas in the Southeastern United States. Passion flower can be grown in a garden or as a houseplant. It grows on vines that can reach 15 feet in a season. There are many kinds of passion flower plants. If you decide to cultivate your own for medicinal uses, make sure you are growing the correct type. Passion flower would be a beautiful addition to any garden, but for those without green thumbs, it can also be bought in capsules, tinctures, and teas.