Native to the southeastern United States, it was traditionally used by Native American tribes like the Cherokee as a social tonic and topical salve before being introduced to European settlers, who associated its intricate floral anatomy with the passion of Christ.

Anxiolytic, nervine sedative, antispasmodic, and mild analgesic.

Harmala alkaloids (such as harman and harmaline), flavonoids (including apigenin and chrysin), and coumarins.

The dried aerial parts (leaves, stems, and flowers.

May cause drowsiness, should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential uterine-stimulating alkaloids, and should not be combined with prescription sedatives or MAO inhibitors.

Extensively used to quiet a racing mind and ease insomnia caused by mental worry, soothe generalized anxiety and nervous restlessness, reduce muscle spasms and neuralgic pain, and help lower mild high blood pressure triggered by chronic stress.