Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
Definition: Used as an effective nervous system calmant in Europe, passionflower is recommended for anyone trying to get off of pharmaceutical sleeping pills. It is also suggested for eye inflammations and hyperactivity.
Applications: Alcoholism, anxiety, eye inflammations, insomnia, nervousness, headaches, hyperactivity, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, asthma, hormonal imbalances and stress.
Scientific Updates: Relatively unknown is the fact that passionflower contains low levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that naturally calms the brain. It is the harmane alkaloids in the herb which have demonstrated their ability to relax smooth muscle and expand the coronary arteries of the heart, decreasing blood pressure.Additional research has also found that passionflower exerts an anti-inflammatory action making it useful for conditions like arthritis.
Complementary Agents: Valerian root, hops, capsicum, peppermint, chamomile, melatonin, GABA and calcium/magnesium.