Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
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- Mental
- 2 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata and related species) is a climbing vine that can grow up to about 30 ft (9 m). It features ornate, complex flowers - often white, purple, or blue - and lobed leaves. Traditionally used as a sedative, passionflower is taken for anxiety and sleep problems; NCCIH says a small amount of research suggests it might help anxiety and total sleep time, but conclusions are not definite. Some species, such as P. quadrangularis, contain serotonin-like compounds.
Traditional uses & properties
Anxiety: Promoted today for anxiety, including anxiety before surgery; NCCIH says a small amount of research suggests oral passionflower might reduce anxiety, including before surgical or dental procedures, but conclusions are not definite. Tension and pain: Promoted today for stress and pain; NCCIH says there is not enough evidence to say whether passionflower helps conditions other than anxiety and sleep, including stress. Sleep (traditional use): Traditionally taken for sleeplessness; NCCIH says a small amount of research suggests it might improve total sleep time in adults with insomnia, but its effects on falling and staying asleep are mixed.
Safety & precautions
Pregnancy: NCCIH says passionflower should not be used during pregnancy because it may induce uterine contractions. Drowsiness: May cause sedation; exercise caution with driving or machinery if taking a strong dose. Medication Interactions: Consult a healthcare professional if taking other sedatives or anti-anxiety drugs.
Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.
Drug interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to the southern U.S., Central America, and parts of South America, passionflower is now cultivated in Europe (particularly Italy) and North America. It prefers sunny conditions, typically growing from seeds in spring. Aerial parts (leaves, flowers, stems) are harvested during flowering or fruiting.
Sources
The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What is Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) as follows: Anxiety: Promoted today for anxiety, including anxiety before surgery; NCCIH says a small amount of research suggests oral passionflower might reduce anxiety, including before surgical or dental procedures, but conclusions are not definite. Tension and pain: Promoted today for stress and pain; NCCIH says there is not enough evidence to say whether passionflower helps conditions other than anxiety and sleep, including stress. Sleep (traditional use): Traditionally taken for sleeplessness; NCCIH says a small amount of research suggests it might improve total sleep time in adults with insomnia, but its effects on falling and staying asleep are mixed.
What safety cautions apply to Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)?
Pregnancy: NCCIH says passionflower should not be used during pregnancy because it may induce uterine contractions. Drowsiness: May cause sedation; exercise caution with driving or machinery if taking a strong dose. Medication Interactions: Consult a healthcare professional if taking other sedatives or anti-anxiety drugs.
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