passion flower

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

• Anxiolytic: passion flower has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and promote a sense of calmness. It acts by enhancing the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity in the brain, which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. 
• Sedative: passion flower has mild sedative properties, which can help promote sleep and improve sleep quality. It is used as a sleep aid for individuals experiencing difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. 
• Antispasmodic: passion flower has been used to alleviate muscle tension and cramps. It may help relax smooth muscles and reduce muscle spasms, making it potentially beneficial for conditions such as menstrual cramps and digestive spasms. 
• Analgesic: passion flower has been used traditionally as a mild pain reliever. It may help reduce mild pain and discomfort associated with headaches, muscle aches, and other types of discomfort. 
• Antioxidant: passion flower contains various antioxidants, including flavonoids, which helps to protect from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. 

The spectrum of passion flower is primarily focused on its effects on the CNS, particularly in promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Ataxia 

Dizziness 

Liver toxicity 

Pancreas toxicity 

Vasculitis 

Altered consciousness 

Confusion 

Drowsiness 

Nausea/vomiting 

Prolonged QT interval 

Ventricular tachycardia 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

passion flower does not typically have a black box warning 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Allergy: Individuals who are allergic to passion flower or any related plants, such as passionfruit, may experience allergic reactions when using passion flower supplements.  
• Sedative medications: passion flower has mild sedative effects and may enhance the effects of medications with sedative properties, such as benzodiazepines or central nervous system depressants. 
• Anticoagulant medications: passion flower may have a mild blood-thinning effect. if using anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin, it is advisable to avoid potential interactions. 
• Surgery: passion flower might affect central nervous system depression and blood clotting. It is recommended to stop using passion flower before two weeks of surgery to decrease the risk of excessive sedation or bleeding complications.

Caution: 

• Sedation: passion flower has mild sedative properties and may cause drowsiness or sleepiness. use caution when taking passion flower supplements, especially if there is a need to remain alert and focused, such as when driving or operating heavy machinery. 
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: In some individuals, passion flower may cause stomach upset, nausea, or digestive discomfort. If you experience any gastrointestinal symptoms after using passion flower, it is recommended to discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional. 
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions to passion flower can occur. If there are any allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. 
• Children: passion flower is not recommended for use in children without the guidance of a healthcare professional. Safety and efficacy in pediatric populations have not been well established. 

Comorbidities: 

• Sedative or Central Nervous System (CNS) depressant use: passion flower has mild sedative properties and may enhance the effects of other sedatives or medications that depress the CNS. If you are already taking medications with sedative effects, such as benzodiazepines or opioids. 
• Liver disease: passion flower is considered safe for individuals with liver disease. However, there is limited information available regarding its specific effects on liver function.  
• Low blood pressure: passion flower has been reported to potentially lower blood pressure. If there is a low blood pressure or are taking medications to lower blood pressure, using passion flower may further decrease your blood pressure. 
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Limited information is available regarding the safety of passion flower during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is recommended to avoid using passion flower supplements during these periods unless under the guidance of a healthcare professional. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: unsafe 

Lactation: avoid use  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

• GABAergic activity: passion flower exhibits GABAergic activity, which means it can interact with the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system in the brain. passion flower’s GABAergic activity is believed to contribute to its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and sedative effects. 
• Benzodiazepine-like effects: passion flower has been found to bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, similar to the mechanism of action of certain anti-anxiety medications. This binding activity may further contribute to its anxiolytic and sedative properties. 
• Monoamine oxidase inhibition: passion flower contains certain flavonoids that have been shown to inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO). MAO is responsible for the breakdown of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Inhibiting MAO can lead to increased levels of these neurotransmitters, potentially contributing to mood-enhancing effects. 
• Antioxidant activity: passion flower contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which helps to protect against the oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body. 
• Anti-inflammatory effects: passion flower has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity and the inhibition of certain inflammatory pathways. 
• Antispasmodic effects: passion flower has been traditionally used as a muscle relaxant and may help relieve smooth muscle spasms, such as those associated with gastrointestinal disorders. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Anxiolytic effects: passion flower has been traditionally used for its calming and anxiety-reducing properties. It is believed to exert its anxiolytic effects through interactions with the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system in the brain. 
• Sedative and sleep-inducing effects: passion flower has been used as sleep aid due to its sedative properties. It may help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, although the exact mechanisms are not well understood. 
• Antispasmodic effects: passion flower has been found to possess antispasmodic properties that help relax smooth muscles.  
• Antioxidant activity: passion flower contains various antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which can helps to protect cells from the oxidative damage which is caused by the free radicals.  
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Some studies suggest that passion flower exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which may be attributed to its antioxidant content. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

The bioavailability of passion flower can vary based on the formulation and route of administration. When taken orally, the compounds in passion flower extract are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. 

Distribution 

After absorption, the active compounds of passion flower are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. The distribution of passion flower components to various tissues and organs is not well-characterized. It is possible that these compounds may cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing them to exert effects on the central nervous system. 

Metabolism 

The metabolism of passion flower in the body is not well-studied. However, it is believed that the active compounds undergo metabolic transformations in the liver and potentially other tissues. 

Elimination and excretion 

The elimination of passion flower components from the body occurs primarily through the kidneys. It is likely that metabolites resulting from the metabolism of passion flower compounds are excreted in urine. The exact elimination half-life of passion flower in humans is not known. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Oral: passion flower is commonly consumed as a tea or herbal infusion. To prepare the tea, dried passion flower leaves and flowers are steeped in hot water for several minutes before being strained and consumed. Alternatively, passion flower extracts or tinctures can be mixed with water or beverages and taken orally. 
• Capsules/Tablets: passion flower supplements are available in the form of capsules or tablets. These are taken orally with water according to the instructions provided on product label. 
• Topical: Some preparations of passion flower may be formulated for topical application. These products are typically used for skin conditions and are applied onto the affected area. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: passion flower 

Pronounced: (PASH-un FLOW-ur)  

Why do we use passion flower? 

• Anxiety and Stress Relief: passion flower used as a natural remedy for anxiety, nervousness, and stress. It may help promote relaxation and calmness. 
• Sleep Aid: passion flower is known for its sedative properties and may be used to improve sleep quality and treat insomnia. It may help reduce restlessness and promote a more restful sleep. 
• Mood Enhancement: passion flower has been used to support a positive mood and relieve symptoms of mild depression. It may have calming effects on the nervous system and help uplift the mood. 
• Pain Relief: passion flower has been utilized as a natural pain reliever. It may help alleviate headaches, muscle tension, and general body discomfort. 
• Menopausal Symptoms: passion flower may be used to manage symptoms of menopause, such as mood swings, hot flashes, and sleep disturbances. 
• Digestive Health: passion flower has been used to support digestive health and relieve gastrointestinal issues, including indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps. 
• Hypertension Management: Some studies suggest that passion flower may have a mild hypotensive effect, meaning it may help lower blood pressure levels.