depression and insomnia

Passion flower is a flowering plant that is native to an area from the Brazil to Argentina and southeast US.

The passion flower gets its name because it reminded the early pilgrims of the passion of Christ.

Passion flower is frequently referred to as Passion Vine, Granadilla, Apricot Vine, Maypops and Maracoc. It has been used historically as a tranquilizer and tobacco substitute (as well as for other things).

In addition to having a profound effect on the central nervous system, passion flower also acts as an anti-spasmodic on the smooth muscles of the body, including the entirety of the digestion system, which is why it has the ability to ease and promote digestion.

It is considered by some to be the herb of choice for treating insomnia as it doesn't produce any side effects and results in a relaxing, restful sleep with no grogginess the next morning.

As well, it is non-addictive and may be used in both the elderley and children without complication.

If used for its medicinal purposes, the whole plant can be used. It is commonly collected after some of the berries have matured, then dried whole.

To prepare an effective passion flower tea, pour a cup of boiling water onto a teaspoonful of the dried herb and let it infuse for fifteen minutes. Drink a cup half an hour before you climb into bed.

Hops are the fruit of a member of the cannabis family native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Widely grown in the Pacific Northwest of the US, hops are used as a major ingredient in flavoring beer.

Hops are generally used together with other herbs and flowers. They are often coupled with lavender, valerian or chamomile, but also holds their own as a relaxing natural sedative. The dried fruits, from which a tea can be made, are frequently available, as are tablets, tinctures, and capsules.

Ordinarily, no side effects or adverse drug interactions are seen with the use of hops, though some people have experienced an uncommon allergic reaction or contact dermatitis from the pollen crystals in the fruits.

The California poppy contains a compound known as protopine, which can be described as being similar similar in effect to a light form of morphine.

Not to be confused with the Opium poppy, the California poppy does not contain the narcotic morphine, although its structure is similar. As a result of this, the California poppy does not exhibit any of the addictive properties of its narcotic relative.

As of the time of writing dosage guidelines haven't been set as the effects of the California poppy have not been widely studied in clinical trials.