PRIMARY FUNCTION
Natural calming agent for stress relief and relaxation.
HOW IT SUPPORTS PET HEALTH
Passionflower extract is derived from the flowers of *Passiflora incarnata*, a plant known for its anxiolytic and mild sedative properties. It supports pet health by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and enhancing sleep quality. Passionflower works by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps regulate neural activity and induces a calming effect. This makes it particularly beneficial for pets experiencing anxiety, such as separation anxiety or stress during thunderstorms and travel.
FUNCTIONAL OVERVIEW
Passionflower contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and alkaloids that interact with GABA receptors in the brain to promote calmness. It also modulates monoamine levels, including serotonin and dopamine, to improve mood and emotional balance. Additionally, its neuroprotective properties help maintain healthy nervous system function, making it suitable for long-term use in managing stress-related conditions.
COMMON VETERINARY USES
Species Studied
- Dogs
- Cats
Primary Benefits for Pets
- Anxiety Relief: Reduces acute stress responses and chronic anxiety.
- Sleep Support: Enhances sleep quality without excessive sedation.
- Nervous System Protection: Provides antioxidant protection to neural tissues.
- Muscle Relaxation: Eases muscle tension associated with anxiety.
Veterinary Use Cases
- Managing separation anxiety or noise phobias in dogs.
- Supporting calmness during veterinary visits or travel.
- Promoting restful sleep in pets with disturbed sleep patterns.
- Easing physical manifestations of stress, such as muscle tightness.
CONTRAINDICATIONS & SENSITIVITIES
Passionflower is generally safe when used at appropriate doses. However, it should be avoided in pregnant pets due to potential uterine stimulant effects. Use cautiously in pets scheduled for surgery or those taking sedatives, anticoagulants, or MAO inhibitors, as interactions may occur. Rare side effects include mild dizziness or digestive upset.
INGREDIENT SOURCING & QUALITY STANDARDS
Passionflower extract used in ThorneVet products is sourced from *Passiflora incarnata* species, ensuring purity and efficacy. The extract is standardized to flavonoid content for consistent results and undergoes rigorous testing for contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals. This guarantees safety and reliability for your pet’s health.
RESEARCH AT A GLANCE
- Anxiolytic Effects: Research shows that passionflower increases GABA activity in the brain, promoting relaxation. URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20382514/
- Stress Reduction: Studies demonstrate reduced anxiety and improved memory in rats given passionflower extract. URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26814055/
- Sleep Support: Passionflower has been shown to improve sleep initiation and quality without causing dependency. URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31643352/
TRADITIONAL APPLICATIONS
Historically, passionflower has been used as a calming remedy in South America and Europe since the 16th century. It was traditionally employed to treat insomnia, anxiety, and muscle tension. Modern veterinary applications have adapted these uses for pets, focusing on its anxiolytic and sedative properties.
DISCLAIMER
This ingredient overview is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new supplements or making changes to your pet’s healthcare regimen.
