Passionflower
Content by: OpenSupplement Editorial Team | Medical review: pending | Last updated: April 13, 2026
TL;DR
Traditional herbal remedy for 'nervous' sleep disorders
Shown in clinical trials to be as effective as oxazepam for generalized anxiety
Boosts GABA levels in the brain to promote relaxation
Moderate evidence for sleep quality improvement
Excellent safety profile; avoid if taking MAOIs
Affordable: ~$8-12/month
Best for: Anxiety-driven insomnia, muscle tension
What it is
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine native to the southeastern United States. It was used by Native Americans as a sedative and was later adopted into European medicine. The active compounds include flavonoids like chrysin and various alkaloids.
Like many sleep herbs, passionflower modulates the GABA system. However, it is often noted for having a slightly more 'physical' relaxation effect compared to lemon balm, making it useful for those who experience muscle tension or restlessness alongside their insomnia.
What the research says
The evidence for passionflower is quite robust for anxiety, which translates to sleep benefits. Comparative Trials. A landmark study in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics compared passionflower to the benzodiazepine Oxazepam. Passionflower was found to be equally effective for anxiety with fewer side effects (specifically less daytime impairment). Sleep Quality. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial using passionflower tea showed significant improvements in subjective sleep quality compared to placebo. Evidence Quality. While the trials are smaller than those for melatonin, the consistency of the anxiety-reduction data is high. [1][2][3]
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Passionflower on Amazon
Safety
Very safe for most. Because it may stimulate uterine contractions, it should be avoided during pregnancy.
Interactions
- MAOIs: Contains trace amounts of harmala alkaloids; avoid combining with Nardil or Parnate.
- Sedatives: Potentiates the effects of other sleep medications and alcohol.
- Blood Thinners: May have a mild anti-platelet effect.
Dosing
For Sleep: 250-500 mg of extract 30-60 minutes before bed. Form: Standardized extract capsules are preferred for consistent dosing over teas or tinctures.
Cost
Affordable. Expect to pay $8-12 per month.
The bottom line
Passionflower is a heavy hitter in the world of herbal anxiolytics. If your insomnia is a byproduct of a 'racing heart' or general 'jitkes,' it is an excellent evidence-based choice.
References
- Ngan A, Conduit R. A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) herbal tea on subjective sleep quality. Phytother Res. 2011;25(8):1153-1159.
- Akhondzadeh S, Naghavi HR, et al. Passionflower in the treatment of generalized anxiety: a pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial with oxazepam. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2001;26(5):363-367.
- Miroddi M, Calapai G, et al. Passiflora incarnata L.: ethnopharmacology, clinical application, safety and evaluation of clinical evidence. J Ethnopharmacol. 2013;150(3):791-804.
Sources for this page include published meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and NIH dietary supplement fact sheets. All claims reflect the evidence as of early 2026.
This is not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.