Passion Flower
Also known
as
Passiflora incarnata, Passiflora caerulea, Apricot
Vine, Blue and Purple Passionflower, and Maypop.
Introduction
Passionflower is a climbing vine native to South
Texas, Mexico, and Central America. Growing to a length of 30 feet (9 meters)
under ideal conditions, the vine bears three-lobed leaves, purple flowers, and
yellow-to-orange egg-shaped fruit. The name of the plant comes an analogy
between the plant’s ornate flower to the elements of the crucifixion of Jesus,
white and purple to symbolize heaven and purity, five stamens for the five
wounds he suffered, three style for the three nails used to affix him to the cross.
A Spanish doctor named Nicolas Monardes was the first to document the flower
used in Peru in 1569, which he then brought back to Europe with him, where its
popularity spread quite rapidly as a sedative. It was later classified by
Linnaeus in 1745, when he noted over 20 species. Nowadays, there are reputably
over 400 different species.
Constituents
Chrysin, harmane, harmaline.
Parts Used
Dried leaves and stems. Passionflower powder must be
stored at temperatures below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C), and should be used
within six months of purchase.
Typical
Preparations
Teas, tinctures and encapsulations. Sometimes found in
relaxing bath blends and sleep pillow mixes.
Summary
Herbalists in Mexico, Central America, and Texas have used passionflower as a calmative and sleeping aid for over 200 years. Currently there is a German E monograph for passionflower citing its use as having sedative qualities.
Benefits of Passion Flower
- Menopausal symptoms
- Lower Blood Pressure
- Anxiety
- Depression
Precautions: Pregnant women should avoid passionflower, since it can stimulate uterine contractions. Safe dosages for children under 6 have not been established. Caution should be used buy those on other sedatives as passionflower may intensify the effects.