Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) contains an active ingredient called chrysin that has been demonstrated to bind to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. In one small study, Passion flower extract 45 drops/day and oxazepam (a benzodiazepine) were equally effective in reducing symptoms of generalized anxiety. Importantly, individuals taking oxazepam reported significant impairments in job performance at doses needed to lower anxiety and no one taking the Passion flower extract had problems working. Important benefits of Passion flower extract compared to benzodiazepines include the absence of excessive daytime sedation and no risk of addiction with prolonged use.
You can find out more about the benefits of Passion flower extract for generalized anxiety and other safe and effective complementary and alternative treatments of anxiety, and learn practical tips for using them in “Anxiety: the Integrative Mental Health Solution,” by James Lake M.D.