Wien Med Wochenschr. 2002 ; 152(15-16): 404-6.

[Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata L.)--a reliable herbal sedative]

Krenn L.

Institut für Pharmakognosie, Universität Wien, Althanstrasse 14, A-1090 Wien. Liselotte.Kren@univie.ac.at

Extracts and fluid extracts from the aerial parts from Passiflora incarnata L. are widely used as components of herbal sedatives. Many pharmacological investigations confirm the sedative effects of Passiflorae herba. From some of the studies also anxiolytic effects can be deduced. As Passionflower is mainly used in combinations, clinical studies of the single drug are not available. Based on pharmacological data, the experiences of traditional use and the use in combinations Passiflora extracts are an important factor in the phytotherapy of tenseness, restlessness and irritability with difficulty in falling asleep.