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Protocols: Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata L)

Psychoactive

Description: Flower native to North, Central and South America and widely used by Aztecs as a sedative and pain reliever.

Method of Action: Active ingredient(s) remain obscure but may be glycosides, altol and ethyl-maltol and flavanoids. Chrysin (5,7 dihydroflavone) has been demonstrated to have benzodiazepine reception activity. Also contains coumarin derivatives, and harma alkaloids.

Indications and Usage: Insomnia (especially in elderly patients); Adjustment Disorder with Anxious Mood; Nervous restlessness; Insomnia; Irritability. Can produce hypnotic state in very high doses. Is non-narcotic and nonaddicting.

Contraindications: Do not use this product if you are pregnant or lactating without first seeking advice from your physician. (Harmala compounds are uterine stimulants.) Do not operate a motor vehicle or machinery when taking this product as it causes sedation. Not for use by children under the age of two. Dosage may need to be lowered for persons over age 65.

Dosage and Administration: 100 to 200 mg of extract standardized to 3.5 to 4 percent isovitexin 20 minutes prior to bedtime. Can be taken in a.m. in capsule form or as one cup of tea (steep covered for five to ten minutes) taken three times daily.

Clinical Effect In: Immediate

Adverse Reactions: Hypersensitivity vasculitis and altered consciousness. Do not use with other over-the-counter, or prescription sleep aids. No liver toxicity noted during in vitro testing. If you suspect that an herb or other supplement is making you sick, call the FDA's MedWatch hotline at 800-332-1088 or contact the agency via its website at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Known Interactive Effects: Can be combined with valerian root, hops, chamomile, or passion flower for treatment of insomnia. Likely to interact with psychotropic medications but no studies available.

Additional Considerations: Percentage of harman alkaloids must not exceed 0.01 percent. Not an aphrodisiac.

Warnings: The information above is provided for educational purposes and may not be construed as a medical prescription or as a substitute for the advice of your physician. Do not use this product without first consulting your physician especially if you are pregnant or lactating. Be advised that some herbs and dietary supplements can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals and may also have an adverse result in conjunction with other medications, or treatments. You should regularly consult your physician in matters regarding your health and particularly in respect to symptoms and conditions, which may require diagnosis or medical attention. Reevaluate use of this product after 6 months.

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