| A native of the Americas, Alfred Vogel saw this ‘showy flower’ in Mexico and Brazil, learning of its uses from the native people. The plant was brought to Europe in the 17th Century as a garden adornment but naturopaths started to use it about 100 years ago. This herb is combined with the fresh young seeds of Avena sativa (Oats) to create this useful tincture. What is it used for? - Stress, nervous tension and anxiety
- Sleeping problems
- Mild depression
- Menopausal symptoms
Why is it needed?
Stress is an increasingly common factor in modern day lives and impacts both physically and mentally, causing muscle tension, sleeping problems, nervous anxiety and irritability. The need in these situations is for a mild but effective sedative that will not cause drowsiness or addiction even if taken long term. There are a number of herbs that work effectively on the central nervous system but some interact with other medication and others are not suitable for long term use. Passiflora has traditionally been used as a remedy for anxiety and mild depression. It has no side effects or contraindications, and can safely be taken long term. When mixed with other sedative herbs Passiflora’s effects are strengthened. In this remedy it is combined with Avena Sativa, another traditional mild sedative with positive effects on both the physical and mental symptoms of stress. This combination is also very appropriate in the menopause, where sleep disturbances and anxiety can emerge. How does it work? - Reduces anxiety
- Prolongs sleeping time
- Increases pain threshold
- Mild antidepressant
Passiflora is an anxiolytic (calms anxiety). Constituents within Passiflora attach selectively to benzodiazepene receptors, calming the nerves. There are no adverse side effects such as addiction or drowsiness, as is often the case with benzodiazepenes themselves. | 
