Passionflower and valerian are two herbs that are often compared because of their proven ability to improve sleep quality.
However, there are significant distinctions between these plants that you should be aware of before making a selection.
In this article, we’ll dig into the differences between passionflower vs. valerian root, as well as their similarities.
Table of Contents
- Passionflower vs. Valerian Root: Similarities & Differences Explained
- Passionflower vs. Valerian Root: Which is right for you?
- Can You Take Passionflower & Valerian Together?
- Best Passionflower & Valerian Supplements:
- Passionflower Overview & Uses:
- Valerian Overview & Uses:
- Potential Side Effects & Interactions:
- Conclusion:
Passionflower vs. Valerian Root: Similarities & Differences Explained
When it comes to comparing passionflower and valerian, there are many similarities between these two herbs.
First off, both valerian root and passionflower are calming herbs.
The key difference between the two is that valerian root is more beneficial for those that are looking to get better sleep at night. Whereas passionflower acts more like a nervous system relaxant, which can be especially helpful for individuals with high levels of stress or anxiety.
| Passionflower Overview: | Valerian Root Overview: | |
| Primary Benefit: | Passionflower may work to promote sleep quality | Valerian root may effectively treat insomnia |
| Secondary Benefit(s): | Passionflower may reduce high levels of anxiety | Valerian root may display anti-stress properties |
| Part of the Plant Used: | Root | Root |
| Dosage Range: | 250-800mg | 300-600mg |
| Form: | Extract, powder or capsule | Extract, powder or capsule |
| Side Effects: | Long term use may result in drowsiness, confusion, or uncoordinated movement | Low likelihood of headache, stomach upset, mental dullness, heart disturbances, or drowsiness |
| Recommended Products: | Herb Pharm | Check Price | Utzy Naturals | Check Price |
Passionflower vs. Valerian Root: Which is right for you?
You can think of passionflower as an anti-stress herb with the ability to support increased sleep quality. The sleep benefit is more of a secondary function.
Whereas with valerian root, its ability to increase sleep quality and reduce sleep latency is its main benefit. It also has an anxiolytic benefit, but this is more of a secondary function.
If you are stressed and need support in your ability to adapt to stress, then passionflower is the right choice. Its secondary sleep-supporting effects are icing on the cake.
If you primarily need help with getting better sleep quality, then valerian root is your best choice. It can help to increase deep REM sleep and help your body to wake up feeling refreshed.
Can You Take Passionflower & Valerian Together?
Yes, you can take valerian root and passionflower together.
These herbs do not have any known negative interactions when taken together.
In fact, these herbs may be a good combination to help increase sleep quality and reduce anxious thoughts.
Best Passionflower & Valerian Supplements:
| Recommended Passionflower | Recommended Valerian Root |
|---|---|
 |  |
| Herb Pharm | Utzy Naturals |
| •Organic, Vegan, and Gluten-Free •3rd Party Tested •Easily Absorbable Liquid Form | •Easy-to-Take Capsules •3rd Party Tested •Made in the USA |
| SHOP NOW ⮕ | SHOP NOW ⮕ |
Passionflower Overview & Uses:
Passionflower is native to the tropical areas of the United States where the weather is hot.
The scientific name for passionflower is Passiflora incarnata.
Other common names for passionflower include:
- Maypop
- Purple passion flower
- Apricot vine
- Old field apricot.
P. incarnata has many different health benefits.
We’ve listed the top research-backed benefits below.
1. May Improve Sleep Quality
Passionflower is popularly known as a sleep aid.
A clinical trial found that consuming one cup of passionflower tea nightly helped to provide sleep benefits. The researchers noted that study participants had better sleep quality and an improved feeling of refreshment upon waking.
Another clinical trial studied the impact of passionflower extract in individuals with insomnia. The findings showed that a small dose of 60mg passionflower extract could increase total sleep time.
The researchers noted that it appears that passionflower works to improve sleep efficiency while decreasing the likelihood of waking up during the night.
2. May Reduce Anxiety
A comparative trial looked at passionflower and oxazepam (a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety) in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. The study revealed that passionflower extract is as effective in reducing anxiety as oxazepam. However, as compared to oxazepam, passionflower has a lower incidence of job performance impairment.
Patients who received an oral dose of 500mg passionflower ninety minutes before surgery in a clinical study had significantly lower levels of anxiety.
Another study that examined anxiety leading up to a dental procedure showed that passionflower intake the night before surgery and the morning of (ninety minutes prior) helped to decrease anxiety levels.
Click here to learn more about the benefits of passionflower.