Passion Flower Side Effects

Passion flower or passiflora is actually a genus, that includes approximately 500 species of flowering plants that belong to the plant family, Passifloraceae. Most of the members of this genus are vines, while a few are shrubs and herbaceous plants. Passion flowers are basically native to the southeastern part of America, though nowadays they are grown in many parts of the world. The plants of the 'passiflora' genus produce large, attractive flowers, called passion flowers. They are characterized by a unique and complex flower structure. They usually contain five petals and five sepals, which can be white, blue, yellow, purple or magenta in color.

Passion fruits are usually round and slightly elongated in shape. Fruits of some species of passion flowers are edible, while fruits of a few species are not considered fit for human consumption. This plant is mainly cultivated for the showy flowers and edible fruits. The flowers along with the leaves and stem of the plant have been in used in the traditional or folk medicine to treat a number of conditions.

Benefits of Passion Flower

It is the traditional herbal remedy for anxiety, insomnia and epilepsy. The flower is supposed to have sedative and antispasmodic properties. It is thought to be very effective for relieving muscle tension. Due to its calming effect, it is used for treating hysteria and seizures as well.

It is generally believed that its medicinal properties can be attributed to its effect on the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain. The flower and its extract is supposed to lower the level of this chemical in the brain, which in turn, reduces the activity of certain brain cells, and thus helps to relax. The antispasmodic effect of passion flowers is also believed to help alleviate gastrointestinal problems, especially, those related with anxiety and nervousness. Apart from these, it is used for treating asthma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), nervousness, high blood pressure, palpitations and irregular heartbeat.

Passion Flower Dangers

When used in moderation, it has not been found to cause any serious side effect. An overdose can however, cause fatigue, nausea, metal fogginess or drowsiness and vomiting. Sometimes, mild confusion along with dizziness and irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia can also be experienced by some individuals. Additionally, it can interact with certain medications and herbs. As for example, taking it along with antidepressant medications can increase the intensity of the effects such medications, which can induce excessive drowsiness or sleepiness.

Some other medications with which it can interact are anticoagulants and antihistamines. Antihistamines are known to produce side effects like, drowsiness, which can get further aggravated, if they are taken along with passion flowers. On the other hand, if taken with anticoagulants, it can increase the risk of bleeding. Rarely, using it for therapeutic purpose can cause allergic reactions. Such allergic reactions can manifest in skin rash or hives, breathing problems, asthma and inflammation of the skin blood vessels. Such types of side effects need to be immediately reported to a physician.

For pregnant and nursing mothers, its safety is not known properly. Therefore, women are usually advised to avoid this herbal remedy during pregnancy, as well as while breastfeeding. To sum up, the side effects are more likely to be experienced, when it is used in excessive amount, or along with other herbs and medications. Therefore, it is imperative to consult an appropriate authority or health care provider before taking any herb or herbal supplement including passion flower, especially if you are taking medications for a particular disease or health condition. Such a precautionary step would help you avoid the side effects, while enabling you to realize its health benefits safely.