Best Passionflower Supplements for Anxiety (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for anxiety, stress, and sleep issues. This flowering vine works by boosting GABA levels in the brain, promoting relaxation without the grogginess associated with prescription sedatives.
The best passionflower supplements use quality extracts standardized for flavonoids, the active compounds responsible for its calming effects. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
| Product | Key Features | Servings | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nutricost Passion Flower Extract | 1,500mg equivalent, 10:1 extract | 120 | Capsules | Best Overall |
| Horbäach Passion Flower Capsules | 2,200mg equivalent, 4:1 extract | 90 | Capsules | Best High-Potency |
| NOW Supplements Passion Flower | 350mg standardized extract, 3.5% flavonoids | 90 | Veg Capsules | Best Standardized Extract |
| Herb Pharm Organic Passionflower | USDA Organic, liquid tincture | 59 | Liquid | Best Organic Liquid |
| BIO KRAUTER Passion Flower Tincture | 670mg per serving, alcohol-free | 56-day supply | Liquid Drops | Best Alcohol-Free Liquid |
| Solaray Passion Flower | 700mg whole aerial parts | 100 | VegCaps | Best Whole Herb |
| Nature’s Answer PassionFlower | 500mg standardized, 3.5% flavonoids | 60 | Capsules | Best for Beginners |
| Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P. | Passionflower + Skullcap + Chamomile blend | 60 | Liquid Phyto-Caps | Best Calming Blend |
| Ultra6 Nutrition Melatonin with Passion Flower | Passionflower + Valerian + 5-HTP + Melatonin | 60 | Liquid Drops | Best for Sleep |
| Wild & Organic Passion Flower Capsules | 600mg extract, no fillers | 180 | Capsules | Best Value |
1. Nutricost Passion Flower Extract – Best Overall
Why it stands out: Nutricost delivers clinical-strength passionflower at an unbeatable value, with 1,500mg equivalent per single capsule and a 4-month supply per bottle.
Each capsule contains a concentrated 10:1 extract equivalent to 1,500mg of raw passionflower herb. This potency level matches what clinical studies have used for anxiety relief, including research showing passionflower’s effectiveness comparable to benzodiazepines for generalized anxiety. The formula is vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free, soy-free, and non-GMO, manufactured in a GMP-certified, FDA-registered facility.
Nutricost has built a reputation for straightforward, no-nonsense supplements, and this passionflower extract exemplifies that approach. There are no proprietary blends hiding ingredient amounts—just pure passionflower extract in a vegetable cellulose capsule. Users consistently report feeling calmer within the first few days of use, with improved sleep quality being a frequently mentioned benefit. With 120 capsules per bottle, you get exceptional value compared to competitors charging more for fewer servings.
Pros:
- High-potency 1,500mg equivalent per capsule
- 4-month supply in one bottle
- Clean formula with no unnecessary additives
- Third-party tested for purity
- Easy single-capsule daily dosing
Cons:
- Single-ingredient formula (no synergistic herbs)
- Not standardized for specific flavonoid content
Best for: Anyone seeking a reliable, high-potency passionflower supplement at an affordable price point.
2. Horbäach Passion Flower Capsules – Best High-Potency
Why it stands out: With 2,200mg equivalent per serving, Horbäach offers one of the most concentrated passionflower supplements on the market for those who need stronger support.
Horbäach uses a 4:1 extract ratio to deliver maximum potency in quick-release capsules, meaning you’re getting the concentrated benefits of significantly more raw passionflower per serving than most competitors. The formula is naturally free of gluten, wheat, yeast, lactose, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives. With over 40 years in the supplement industry, Horbäach maintains strict quality standards with laboratory-tested ingredients.
The quick-release capsule design means the passionflower extract begins dissolving and absorbing soon after swallowing, making this a good option for both daily maintenance and acute anxiety situations. Users consistently report improved sleep quality, reduced nighttime restlessness, and calmer nerves within the first week of use. Some reviewers note it works better than melatonin for sleep without the morning grogginess. The 90-count bottle provides 45 servings at the recommended two-capsule dose.
Pros:
- Highest potency available (2,200mg equivalent)
- Quick-release capsules for faster absorption
- Trusted brand with 40+ year track record
- Non-GMO and free from common allergens
- Laboratory tested for quality assurance
Cons:
- Two capsules required per serving
- May cause drowsiness (best taken before bed)
- Stronger than necessary for mild anxiety
Best for: Those who need maximum-strength support or haven’t responded to lower doses.
3. NOW Supplements Passion Flower – Best Standardized Extract
Why it stands out: NOW’s formula is standardized to 3.5% flavonoids (as vitexin and isovitexin), ensuring consistent potency and reliable results in every capsule.
Standardization matters because flavonoids are the active compounds responsible for passionflower’s calming effects—without standardization, you’re essentially guessing at potency from bottle to bottle. NOW uses a 4:1 extract from the flower and aerial parts, delivering 350mg of concentrated extract per veg capsule with guaranteed flavonoid content. Clinical research on passionflower has often used similar standardized extracts to ensure reproducible results.
NOW Foods has been a leader in the natural products industry since 1968, known for rigorous quality testing and transparent labeling. Their GMP-certified manufacturing facilities undergo regular audits, and every batch is tested for identity, purity, and potency. The vegan capsules are suitable for plant-based diets, and the straightforward formula contains only passionflower extract, cellulose, ascorbyl palmitate, and silica—no unnecessary additives. Users appreciate the ability to take 1-2 capsules depending on their individual needs.
Pros:
- Standardized to 3.5% flavonoids for consistent results
- Vegan capsules suitable for plant-based diets
- Affordable price from a trusted brand
- Flexible dosing (1-2 capsules as needed)
- Over 50 years of industry reputation
Cons:
- Lower total milligrams than some competitors
- May require two capsules for stronger effects
- Not organic
Best for: Anyone who wants guaranteed flavonoid content and consistent, predictable dosing.
4. Herb Pharm Organic Passionflower – Best Organic Liquid
Why it stands out: Certified USDA Organic and prepared from flowering herb grown on their own regenerative farm, Herb Pharm sets the gold standard for liquid passionflower extracts.
Herb Pharm extracts the whole flowering herb (leaf, flower, and succulent stem) using certified organic cane alcohol, preserving the full spectrum of beneficial plant compounds. Their small-batch extraction process and HPTLC (High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography) fingerprinting ensures authentic Passiflora incarnata in every bottle—no adulterants, no substitutes. This level of botanical verification is rare in the supplement industry.
The liquid format allows for flexible dosing and faster absorption than capsules, making it ideal for acute anxiety moments. Each squeeze of the dropper bulb delivers approximately 140mg of herb equivalent. As a Certified B Corporation, Herb Pharm meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, and their Oregon farm holds Regenerative Organic Certification. While the alcohol base (66-76%) and earthy, bitter taste aren’t for everyone, they indicate a traditional, potent extraction method.
Pros:
- USDA Organic certified
- Full-spectrum extraction preserves all active compounds
- Liquid absorbs faster than capsules
- B Corp certified with sustainable practices
- Rigorous identity testing via HPTLC fingerprinting
Cons:
- Contains alcohol (66-76%)
- Bitter, earthy taste may be unpleasant
- Higher price point than capsules
- Shorter shelf life once opened
Best for: Those prioritizing organic certification, sustainability, and fast-acting liquid delivery.
5. BIO KRAUTER Passion Flower Tincture – Best Alcohol-Free Liquid
Why it stands out: This alcohol-free formula delivers 670mg per serving in easy-to-use drops, making it ideal for those who avoid alcohol or prefer a milder taste.
BIO KRAUTER’s vegan liquid drops provide passionflower extract without the alcohol base found in traditional tinctures. The 4 fl oz bottle offers a 56-day supply when taken as directed. Users appreciate the sugar-free formula and the convenience of adding drops to water, juice, or tea. The alcohol-free extraction process still captures the herb’s beneficial compounds while being suitable for those in recovery or with alcohol sensitivities.
Pros:
- Alcohol-free and sugar-free
- Vegan-friendly formula
- Convenient dropper for precise dosing
- 56-day supply per bottle
Cons:
- Herbal taste may be strong for some
- Results may take time to notice
Best for: Those who prefer liquid supplements but want to avoid alcohol.
6. Solaray Passion Flower – Best Whole Herb
Why it stands out: Solaray uses 700mg of whole aerial parts rather than just an extract, providing the complete natural matrix of the passionflower plant.
The whole-herb approach means you’re getting passionflower as nature intended, with all the synergistic compounds working together. Solaray has been a trusted name in herbal supplements since 1973, and their lab-verified, non-GMO formula comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee. The vegan capsules are easy to swallow and gentle on the stomach. Two capsules daily provide 700mg of passionflower, a traditional dose used by herbalists.
Pros:
- Whole aerial parts preserve natural plant balance
- 50-serving bottle at competitive price
- Vegan and non-GMO certified
- 60-day satisfaction guarantee
Cons:
- Lower concentration than extract forms
- May need multiple capsules for stronger effects
Best for: Herbalist purists who prefer whole-plant supplements over concentrated extracts.
7. Nature’s Answer PassionFlower – Best for Beginners
Why it stands out: A moderate 500mg dose standardized to 3.5% flavonoids makes this an ideal starting point for passionflower newcomers.
Nature’s Answer has been producing herbal supplements since 1972, using their proprietary Bio-Chelated cold extraction process. The standardized extract ensures consistent flavonoid content while the moderate dose allows new users to assess their response before increasing intake. The vegetarian capsules are free from alcohol, gluten, and artificial ingredients. Their Advanced Botanical Fingerprint Technology verifies herb identity and potency.
Pros:
- Moderate dose ideal for assessing tolerance
- Standardized 3.5% flavonoids
- Cold extraction preserves delicate compounds
- Family-owned company since 1972
Cons:
- May not be strong enough for experienced users
- Only 30 servings per bottle
Best for: First-time passionflower users or those sensitive to supplements.
8. Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P. – Best Calming Blend
Why it stands out: This synergistic formula combines organic passionflower with skullcap, chamomile, vervain, and holy basil for comprehensive anxiety support that addresses stress from multiple angles.
Gaia Herbs formulates Calm A.S.A.P. for those who need rapid relief during stressful moments—the name stands for “As Soon As Possible.” The liquid phyto-caps deliver concentrated herbal extracts in an easily digestible form that the body can quickly absorb and utilize. Each herb is carefully selected for its calming properties: passionflower and chamomile promote relaxation, skullcap supports the nervous system, vervain helps ease tension, and holy basil (tulsi) is an adaptogen that helps the body manage stress responses over time.
What sets Gaia apart is their commitment to transparency and quality. Their MeetYourHerbs traceability program lets you enter your product’s ID number and verify the origin, testing results, and purity data for every batch. The company grows many of their own herbs on their certified organic farm in North Carolina and has maintained rigorous quality standards since 1987. While the multi-herb approach means this isn’t a pure passionflower supplement, the synergistic combination often provides more comprehensive support than single-herb formulas.
Pros:
- Multi-herb formula for comprehensive support
- Liquid phyto-caps absorb quickly
- Certified organic passionflower
- Full traceability via MeetYourHerbs program
- 35+ years of herbal expertise
Cons:
- Contains multiple herbs (not pure passionflower)
- 20-day supply at recommended dosing
- Premium pricing compared to single-herb options
Best for: Those wanting a complete calming formula rather than single-herb supplementation.
9. Ultra6 Nutrition Melatonin with Passion Flower – Best for Sleep
Why it stands out: This comprehensive sleep formula combines passionflower with valerian root, 5-HTP, and melatonin for maximum nighttime relaxation and sleep onset support.
Ultra6 Nutrition designed this liquid blend specifically for those whose anxiety primarily manifests as sleep difficulties. The formula addresses multiple pathways to sleep: passionflower promotes GABA-mediated relaxation, valerian root has centuries of traditional use for sedation, 5-HTP supports serotonin production for mood and sleep regulation, and melatonin signals to your body that it’s time for sleep. This multi-pronged approach often works better than any single ingredient alone.
The liquid delivery system allows for faster absorption compared to capsules, helping you fall asleep more quickly after taking it. Users report the taste is pleasant compared to many herbal sleep supplements, making it easier to incorporate into a nightly routine. The dropper allows for dose adjustment—you can start with a smaller amount and increase if needed. For those who’ve struggled with passionflower alone or melatonin alone, this combination formula may provide the breakthrough you need.
Pros:
- Multi-ingredient formula targets multiple sleep pathways
- Fast-acting liquid delivery
- Includes melatonin for circadian rhythm support
- Pleasant taste for a liquid supplement
- Adjustable dosing with dropper
Cons:
- Contains melatonin (not suitable for daytime use)
- Multiple active ingredients may not suit everyone
- Not ideal for anxiety-only use (focused on sleep)
- May cause morning grogginess if overused
Best for: Those whose anxiety primarily affects sleep quality and who want comprehensive nighttime support.
10. Wild & Organic Passion Flower Capsules – Best Value
Why it stands out: At 180 capsules per bottle with 600mg per serving, this clean formula offers exceptional value for long-term supplementation.
Wild & Organic delivers a straightforward passionflower supplement without unnecessary fillers or additives. The 600mg per capsule dosage is effective for most users, and the 6-month supply per bottle makes this one of the most economical options for daily use. The vegan formula uses plant-based cellulose capsules, and the company commits to non-GMO, no artificial additive formulations. For those who prefer simplicity and value, this is hard to beat.
Pros:
- 180 capsules per bottle (6-month supply)
- No fillers or artificial ingredients
- Vegan and non-GMO
- Affordable per-serving cost
Cons:
- Not standardized for flavonoid content
- Less potent than high-concentration extracts
Best for: Budget-conscious consumers seeking long-term supplementation.
What is Passionflower and Who Should Take It?
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a climbing vine native to the southeastern United States and Central America. Native Americans used it for centuries to treat anxiety, insomnia, and nervous conditions. Spanish explorers encountered the plant in Peru and named it for its resemblance to Christian symbols of the crucifixion (the “Passion” of Christ). The plant’s calming effects come from flavonoids like chrysin and benzoflavone, which interact with GABA receptors in the brain to promote relaxation without the sedation or dependency risks associated with many pharmaceutical options.
The science behind passionflower’s anxiety-relieving properties centers on its ability to increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. When GABA levels are low, anxiety and restlessness often increase. Passionflower’s flavonoids appear to bind to GABA-A receptors, producing calming effects similar to—but milder than—prescription benzodiazepines like Valium or Xanax.
You might benefit from passionflower supplementation if you experience occasional anxiety, nervousness before stressful events like public speaking or flying, difficulty relaxing in the evening, or mild sleep disturbances. It’s particularly popular among those seeking natural alternatives to prescription anxiolytics without the risk of dependence. A notable study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that passionflower was as effective as oxazepam (a benzodiazepine) for treating generalized anxiety disorder, with fewer side effects like job-related impairment. While more large-scale studies are needed, the existing research supports passionflower as a legitimate natural option for managing occasional anxiety.
How to Choose the Right Passionflower Supplement
Key Ingredients to Look For
The most effective passionflower supplements use Passiflora incarnata, the species with the most research supporting its anxiolytic effects. There are approximately 500 species in the Passiflora genus, but incarnata (also called purple passionflower or maypop) has the strongest evidence for calming benefits. Look for products standardized to contain 3.5% or higher flavonoids (as vitexin or isovitexin), as these are the primary active compounds responsible for GABA modulation.
Extract ratios like 4:1 or 10:1 indicate concentration—a 4:1 extract means 4 pounds of raw herb were concentrated into 1 pound of extract, so you need less material for the same effect. Higher ratios mean more potency per milligram. Dosages in clinical studies typically range from 250mg to 900mg of extract daily, though some studies used up to 1,000mg without adverse effects.
If using whole herb rather than extract, you’ll need higher amounts (500-2000mg daily) to achieve similar results. For combination formulas, passionflower works synergistically with other calming herbs. Valerian root enhances sedative effects for sleep support, chamomile adds gentle relaxation, lemon balm complements anxiety relief, and skullcap supports overall nervous system health. These combinations can provide broader support than passionflower alone.
Forms Compared
Capsules offer convenience and precise dosing, making them ideal for daily supplementation and those who dislike herbal tastes. They’re easy to travel with and have longer shelf stability than liquids. Most people start with capsules due to their simplicity.
Liquid extracts (tinctures) absorb faster because they begin entering the bloodstream through the mouth’s mucous membranes rather than waiting for digestive breakdown. This makes them preferable for acute anxiety moments when you need quick relief. However, they often have strong herbal tastes that some find unpleasant.
Alcohol-based tinctures are traditional and preserve plant compounds effectively, with alcohol acting as both a solvent and preservative. Glycerin-based (alcohol-free) options suit those in recovery, those with alcohol sensitivities, or those giving supplements to children (with proper medical guidance). Teas provide a gentle, ritualistic approach but deliver lower and less consistent doses—enjoyable for mild support but not ideal when you need reliable potency.
What to Avoid
Skip products that don’t specify the Passiflora species or use vague terms like “passionflower blend” without listing exact ingredients. Avoid supplements with excessive fillers like magnesium stearate in high amounts, artificial colors, or unnecessary additives that don’t contribute to the formula’s effectiveness. Be wary of proprietary blends that hide individual ingredient amounts, making it impossible to know if you’re getting therapeutic doses.
Also, extremely cheap products may use inferior plant material (wrong species, wrong plant parts, or harvested at the wrong time) or inadequate extraction methods that don’t capture the full range of active compounds. Look for third-party testing, GMP certification, and transparent labeling. If a price seems too good to be true, the product may not deliver the results you’re expecting.
Side Effects and Precautions
Passionflower is generally well-tolerated when taken within recommended doses, and serious adverse effects are rare. The most common side effects are mild and may include drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion in some individuals, particularly at higher doses. Some people report mild gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, or rapid heartbeat when starting supplementation. These effects typically diminish as your body adjusts or with dose reduction.
Because passionflower has sedative properties, avoid taking it before driving, operating heavy machinery, or performing tasks requiring full alertness. Don’t combine passionflower with alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or other sedatives, as the effects may compound and cause excessive drowsiness or impaired coordination. If you feel overly drowsy, reduce your dose or take it only before bedtime.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid passionflower supplements. Some alkaloids in the plant (specifically harman and harmaline from the harmala subgroup) may stimulate uterine contractions, posing risks during pregnancy. Insufficient safety data exists for nursing mothers, so avoidance is the cautious approach during lactation.
Those scheduled for surgery should stop passionflower at least two weeks before the procedure. The herb may enhance the effects of anesthesia, potentially causing complications during surgery or affecting recovery. Always inform your healthcare provider and anesthesiologist about any supplements you take.
If you take prescription medications—especially sedatives, anti-anxiety drugs, anticoagulants, or MAO inhibitors—consult your healthcare provider before adding passionflower to your routine. The herb may interact with these medications, either enhancing their effects or interfering with their metabolism. People with liver conditions should also exercise caution and seek medical guidance before use.
FAQs
How long does passionflower take to work for anxiety?
Most people notice calming effects within 30-60 minutes of taking passionflower, especially with liquid extracts. For chronic anxiety support, consistent daily use for 2-4 weeks typically produces the most noticeable benefits as the herb builds up in your system.
What is the best time to take passionflower?
For anxiety, take passionflower 30-60 minutes before stressful situations or as needed throughout the day. For sleep support, take it 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Some people split their dose, taking half in the afternoon and half before bed.
Can I take passionflower every day?
Studies suggest passionflower is safe for daily use for up to 8 weeks. For longer-term use, consider cycling (taking breaks) or consulting a healthcare provider. Many people use passionflower daily for months without issues, but long-term safety data is limited.
Does passionflower interact with medications?
Yes, passionflower may interact with sedatives, anti-anxiety medications, blood thinners, and MAO inhibitors. It can enhance the sedative effects of medications like benzodiazepines or sleep aids. Always consult your doctor if you take prescription medications.
Is passionflower better than ashwagandha for anxiety?
They work differently. Passionflower provides more immediate calming effects through GABA modulation, while ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps the body manage stress over time. Some people combine both for comprehensive anxiety support—passionflower for acute moments and ashwagandha for daily resilience.
What’s the difference between passionflower extract and whole herb?
Extracts are concentrated forms that require smaller doses to achieve effects, with standardization ensuring consistent flavonoid levels. Whole herb supplements contain the entire aerial parts in their natural state, offering the full spectrum of plant compounds but requiring larger doses. Extracts are generally more potent and predictable.
Final Verdict
For most people seeking anxiety relief, Nutricost Passion Flower Extract offers the best combination of potency, purity, and value. Its 1,500mg equivalent dose matches clinical study parameters, the clean formula contains no unnecessary additives, and the 4-month supply makes it exceptionally economical for long-term supplementation. It’s a straightforward, effective choice that works for the majority of users.
If you need maximum strength because lower doses haven’t provided adequate relief, Horbäach Passion Flower Capsules delivers 2,200mg equivalent—the highest potency we reviewed. This is ideal for those with more significant anxiety or stress levels, or anyone who metabolizes supplements quickly.
For those prioritizing organic certification and sustainability, Herb Pharm Organic Passionflower provides certified organic quality with rapid liquid absorption. The full-spectrum extraction and rigorous botanical verification make it worth the premium price for health-conscious consumers.
Budget-conscious shoppers should consider Wild & Organic Passion Flower Capsules for its unbeatable 6-month supply at minimal cost, while those wanting comprehensive calming support rather than a single-herb approach will appreciate Gaia Herbs Calm A.S.A.P.’s synergistic multi-herb formula combining passionflower with chamomile, skullcap, and holy basil.
For sleep-specific concerns, Ultra6 Nutrition Melatonin with Passion Flower provides targeted nighttime support by combining passionflower with melatonin, valerian, and 5-HTP. And beginners should start with Nature’s Answer PassionFlower for its moderate 500mg dose that allows you to assess your individual response before moving to higher-potency options.
Whichever you choose, remember that consistency matters with herbal supplements. Give any passionflower product at least 2-4 weeks of regular use before evaluating its effectiveness, and always consult your healthcare provider if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.
