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Passion Flower Notes
Passion flower has a sedating effect on central nervous system activity and is hypotensive; it is used to lower blood pressure, prevent tachycardia, and relieve insomnia. Its alkaloids and flavonoids have both been reported to have sedative activity in animals. Many of its flavonoids are well known for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory activities. Passion flower is the herb of choice for treating intransigent insomnia. It promotes restful sleep without any "narcotic hangover." It may be used wherever an antispasmodic is required, as in Parkinson's disease, seizures, and hysteria. It can be very effective in nerve pain such as neuralgia and the viral infection of nerves called shingles. It may be used in asthma where there is much spasmodic activity, especially when there is associated tension.
From "An Elders Herbal" by David Hoffman, Healing Arts Press, 1993
