Research synthesisModerate evidenceSmall effect11 studies · 8 beneficial · 3 neutral · 0 harmful
Across 11 studies, 8 reported beneficial effects of passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) on anxiety, predominantly with small effect sizes. The most robust evidence comes from randomized controlled trials in adults undergoing dental or surgical procedures, with doses of 260–500 mg used in some studies. Effects were often comparable to standard anxiolytics like midazolam but not consistently superior to placebo.
- Effective dose range: 260–500 mg
- Studied populations: adults undergoing dental procedures (e.g., third molar extraction) and elective surgery
Caveats: Available evidence is overwhelmingly positive — clinical literature in this area is subject to publication bias (null-result studies are less likely to be published or indexed). Many of the included studies did not reach statistical significance — effect may be smaller than the predominant direction suggests. Most studies were in acute peri-procedural anxiety, not chronic anxiety disorders, limiting generalizability. Several studies lacked placebo control or had small sample sizes.
Generated Jul 17, 2026