Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a flowering, woody vine traditionally used as a calming and sedative agent. The flower petals, leaves, and stems of the plant are typically used in supplements.[1] People around the world have used it as a treatment for pain, insomnia, anxiety, and opioid dependence.[2] The supplement comes in several formulations, including teas, capsules, tablets, and liquids. In addition to its uses as a supplement, passionflower is also a FDA-approved food additive for flavoring purposes.[3]
The Passiflora genus has many different species. Passiflora incarnata should not be confused with Passiflora edulis; even though the latter has shown numerous effects in animal studies, very limited information is available regarding its use in humans.[4]