Passionflower

More about Passionflower

The passion flower, passiflora incarnata, has beautiful flowers. The name Passion flower (Flower of Passion), was chosen by Spanish missionaries. This plant reminded them of the crucifixion of Christ.

Many medicinal properties

The medicinal properties attributed to Passion Flower are:  Analgesic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, anxiety-inhibiting, diuretic, hypnotic, sedative. The indigenous Indians of the Amazon rainforest have been using passionflower and fruit for centuries. The plant was used to heal wounds. The soothing and narcotic properties of passion flower are used by people with feelings of anxiety and insomnia. Passionflower is used to treat insomnia, gastrointestinal upset related to anxiety or nervousness, generalized anxiety disorder, and relieving symptoms related to narcotic drug withdrawal. Passionflower is also used for seizures, hysteria, asthma, symptoms of menopause, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), nervousness and excitability, palpitations, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, fibromyalgia, and pain relief.
It can also alleviate spasms and muscle cramps.

MAO Inhibitor

Passionflower has a calming and relaxing effect, but is more often used to enhance the effects of other psychoactive herbs, such as Damiana or Skullcap, due to the MAO-inhibiting properties of Harmaline and Harmine.

Usage

Soak in hot water for 15 minutes to make tea.

Ingredients

Passionflower

Warning

Because of its MAO-inhibiting properties, it is not recommended to use Passiflora when you suffer from heart disease, blood pressure problems, diabetes, glaucoma, thyroid gland problems, and kidney or prostate problems. Not to be used during pregnancy, not to be used by breastfeeding women, not to be used by persons who use MAO-inhibitors, anti-depressants or other (ephedrine and/or caffeine-like) (medicinal) products. Always consult your physician when in doubt.
 

Scientific name

Passiflora Incarnata