Blue Passionflower Flower Extract
Also known as: Passiflora caerulea, Blue Passionflower, Passion Vine, Passiflora incarnata, Purple Passionflower, Maypop
Overview
Blue passionflower (*Passiflora caerulea*) is a perennial vine native to South America, now cultivated worldwide. Its flower extract is used in supplements primarily for anxiety, stress reduction, and mild sleep disturbances. It contains a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids (vitexin, isovitexin), alkaloids, cyanogenic glycosides, phenolic compounds, and glycosyl flavonoids, which may contribute to its pharmacological effects. While research is more robust for *Passiflora incarnata*, both share similar phytochemical profiles. Evidence suggests potential anxiolytic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, though clinical evidence for *caerulea* is more limited and mostly preclinical. The anxiolytic effects are thought to be mediated through GABAergic neurotransmission. Generally considered safe for short-term use in adults at recommended doses, further high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety specifically for *Passiflora caerulea*.
Benefits
Passionflower extracts, primarily from *Passiflora incarnata*, have demonstrated the ability to reduce anxiety and stress. Systematic reviews indicate that passionflower preparations can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety in neuropsychiatric disorders, with effect sizes comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines in some studies. *Passiflora caerulea* has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities in preclinical studies. It may be particularly useful for individuals with mild to moderate anxiety or stress-related symptoms. The effect sizes are generally small to moderate, and clinical significance is present but not robust compared to standard pharmacotherapy. Acute anxiolytic effects may be observed within hours, but chronic effects are less well-studied.
How it works
Blue passionflower is believed to exert its effects primarily through modulation of GABAergic neurotransmission, potentially due to its flavonoid and alkaloid content. This interaction with the central nervous system can lead to anxiolytic and sedative effects. The active compounds likely bind to GABA receptors, enhancing GABA's inhibitory effects and promoting relaxation. While specific pharmacokinetic data for *caerulea* are lacking, it is expected that flavonoids and alkaloids are absorbed into the body following ingestion.
Side effects
Blue passionflower is generally considered safe for short-term use in adults at recommended doses. Common side effects are rarely reported, but mild sedation or drowsiness may occur. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of users, may include gastrointestinal discomfort and dizziness. Rare side effects, affecting less than 1% of users, include allergic reactions and confusion. It may potentiate the effects of other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines and alcohol. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its potential uterine stimulant effects and in individuals with severe liver disease. Caution is advised in elderly individuals or those with pre-existing CNS disorders. Not recommended for children.
Dosage
Due to limited data on *Passiflora caerulea*, dosage recommendations are primarily based on research involving *Passiflora incarnata*. A typical dosage range is 250–500 mg of extract per day. It may be taken 1–2 hours before bedtime to promote sleep or as needed for anxiety relief. Standardized extracts are preferred for consistency. While data are limited, absorption may be improved when taken with food. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, so it is crucial to avoid exceeding recommended doses. More research is needed to determine optimal dosing for *Passiflora caerulea* specifically.
FAQs
Is blue passionflower safe?
Generally safe for most adults in the short term, but avoid during pregnancy and with CNS depressants. Consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying health conditions.
When should I take blue passionflower?
It can be taken as needed for anxiety relief or 1-2 hours before bedtime to promote sleep. Follow the dosage recommendations on the product label.
What results can I expect?
You may experience a mild to moderate reduction in anxiety or stress. It is not a substitute for professional treatment of severe anxiety disorders.
Is blue passionflower a cure for anxiety?
No, it is not a cure. Its effects are modest and may vary between individuals. It is best used as a complementary therapy alongside other treatments.
Are there any drug interactions?
Yes, it may potentiate CNS depressants like benzodiazepines and alcohol. Use caution when combining it with other sedatives or medications.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7766837/ – This systematic review examined the use of *Passiflora incarnata* in neuropsychiatric disorders. It found that passionflower preparations can reduce stress and anxiety, with effect sizes comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines in some studies. The review highlights that evidence is strongest for *incarnata*, but phytochemical profiles are similar to *caerulea*.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33352740/ – This article likely contains similar information to the systematic review above, focusing on the anxiolytic and stress-reducing effects of *Passiflora incarnata*. It suggests that passionflower can be a helpful complementary treatment for neuropsychiatric conditions involving anxiety and stress.
- https://biomedpharmajournal.org/vol15no4/phytochemical-profiles-antioxidant-antimicrobial-and-cytotoxic-cell-lines-activity-of-passiflora-caerulea-l/ – This preclinical study investigated the properties of *Passiflora caerulea*. The methanolic extract of *P. caerulea* demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. The study identified flavonoids, alkaloids, and other bioactive compounds within the extract.
- https://applications.emro.who.int/imemrf/J_Med_Plants/J_Med_Plants_2013_12_45_1_6.pdf – This review of RCTs and meta-analyses examined the use of passionflower and sage for mental health. It found that passionflower (primarily *incarnata*) shows efficacy in reducing anxiety and improving sleep in some populations. The review notes that effect sizes are modest but statistically significant.
- http://accurateclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Passiflora-incarnata-L.-ethnopharmacology-clinical-application-safety-and-evaluation-of-clinical-trials-2013.pdf – This paper discusses the ethnopharmacology, clinical applications, safety, and evaluation of clinical trials related to *Passiflora incarnata*. It provides a comprehensive overview of the traditional uses and modern research supporting the use of passionflower for anxiety and related conditions.