Passionflower

Also known as: Passiflora incarnata, maypop, apricot vine

Grade B — Moderate Evidenceherbsleepanxiety
250–500 mg extract30-45 min before bed or anticipated stressor

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a traditional anxiolytic herb that modulates GABA-A receptors through its flavonoid constituents, particularly chrysin. Clinical trials have demonstrated anxiolytic effects comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines, with benefits for generalized anxiety and pre-operative nervousness. It also shows promise for improving sleep quality, particularly when combined with valerian root, without significant next-day sedation.

TL;DR: Gentle anxiolytic herb comparable to low-dose oxazepam. Effective for pre-surgical anxiety and sleep without next-day impairment.

🌙Sleep🧘Stress & Anxiety
Last reviewed: 2026-03-12

Quick Facts

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

3

Interactions

3

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Interaction Warnings

CNS depressants / benzodiazepinesModerate

Additive sedation

MAOIsModerate

Potential interaction via beta-carboline alkaloids; avoid

Blood thinnersLow

Weak anticoagulant activity; monitor warfarin

Important Notes

  • Avoid in pregnancy (uterine stimulant in animal models)
  • Contains harmane alkaloids with mild MAO inhibition

Clinical Evidence (3 studies)

Passionflower tea improved sleep quality

Ngan A & Conduit R (2011) — Phytother Res

Improved sleep quality over placebo; crossover RCT

View on PubMed

Passionflower vs oxazepam for anxiety

Akhondzadeh S et al. (2001) — J Clin Pharm Ther

Comparable efficacy to oxazepam, fewer side effects

View on PubMed

Passionflower reduced pre-operative anxiety

Movafegh A et al. (2008) — Anesth Analg

500mg reduced pre-operative anxiety without sedation vs placebo

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Passionflower.

Magnesium Glycinate

Grade A

Highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Strong evidence for sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Most adults are deficient.

🌙 Sleep🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Ashwagandha

Grade A

Ayurvedic adaptogen with strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction (15-30%), stress relief, and exercise performance.

🧘 Stress & Anxiety🌙 Sleep

Kava

Grade A

Cochrane-validated anxiolytic: significant anxiety reduction comparable to benzodiazepines. Use noble cultivar water extracts to minimize liver risk.

🧘 Stress & Anxiety🌙 Sleep

Related Supplements

Lemon Balm

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Gentle anxiolytic herb that provides calmness without sedation. Pairs well with valerian for sleep. Watch thyroid interactions.

Valerian Root

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Traditional sleep herb with moderate RCT support. Comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines. Not acutely sedating — builds over weeks.

Kava

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Cochrane-validated anxiolytic: significant anxiety reduction comparable to benzodiazepines. Use noble cultivar water extracts to minimize liver risk.

Magnesium Glycinate

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Strong evidence for sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Most adults are deficient.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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