There was a magnificent passionflower vine in the backyard of a long term rental house I had in my twenties. I was enchanted at the rather trippy flowers with their intricate and unusual structures, shapes and the colours. This is an artful plant indeed.

When I started studying herbal medicine I was amused to learn that passionflower is an anxiolytic, nervine tonic and - in higher doses - a sedative. It’s as if the flower gives clues to it’s medicine. Working with the plant opens doors to alternative insights, the bigger picture, and enables relaxation and enjoyment at the same time. It can be used to support withdrawal from opiates, alcohol and cannabis. It can be used for anxiety, insomnia and restlessness and is safe in children (in adjusted doses).Passionflower is especially great for gastrointestinal problems related to anxiety and nervousness.

One small study found that in a group of 36 people with Generalised Anxiety Disorder, passionflower was just as effective as reducing anxiety after four weeks as Oxazepam - a benzodiazapene - and it was better tolerated. Another study found that patients given passionflower 90 minutes before surgery scored much better on anxiety scores than a placebo group.

The anti-anxiety relax and chill out vibe of passionflower and it’s aphrodisiac properties can make this a rather nice herb to have around in these housebound isolation times.

Passionflower is contraindicated in pregnancy due to uterine contractions.

If you would like some herbs for yourself please book in for an online appointment with myself. There are many herbs out there and different herbs are suited to different people - and I’ve got quite a knack for matching herbs with people. I’ve created a new appointment type - A herbal medicine consult - which is shorter than a traditional initial naturopathic appointment and is more affordable. $88 includes a 200ml herbal, a personalised flower essence and postage . Or $66 for a 100ml herbal, flower essence+ postage. After your initial appointment refill’s can be arranged for the cost of herbs + postage (or pick up in South Fremantle). All initial appointments are online with zoom, follow ups can be over the phone or video link.

Book your herbal medicine consult here through this link.