Medicinal uses of Passion flower
Passion flower (Passiflora), also
known as passion vines, apricot vine or maypop, belongs to a large genus of
more than 400 species of flowering plants. They are mostly perennial climbing
vines, while some species are shrubs and herbaceous. Native of south-eastern
parts of America ,
the plant has herbaceous shoots with strong woody stem. The aerial parts (flowers, leaves, and stems) of Passiflora
plant are known for medicinal properties. According to folk remedies, the
flower is considered to have a calming effect and its fresh or dried leaves are
used in tea before bed to assist in sleeping. It also contains some potent
chemicals and therefore a correct dosage should be administered, as it may
interact unexpectedly with certain drugs and cause serious effects.
Medicinal Uses of Passion
flower
General body
Passion flower is popularly used as a mild sedative, anxiolytic
(anxiety-relieving) and hypnotic. It also has analgesic properties and
herbalists use the plant for treating physiological disorders like seizures and
hysteria. Scientists are performing trials to confirm the influence of passion
flower on the levels of a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) found in the brain. It
is believed that GABA helps in relaxation by lowering the activity of some
brain cells.
Nervous System
Passion flower is traditionally one of the best herbal remedy available for
various types of nervous manifestations. Unlike other tranquilizers, this plant
exercises sedation without posing any side effects (like creating depression).
This is because of the action of flavonoids present in the aerial parts of the
plant.
Insomnia, anxiety and depression
The flower exhibits
stress-relieving effects. It calms and relaxes the nerves of the body and helps
in sleeping. Intake of dried plant in water helps in cases of vertigo or
dizziness caused by alterations of the nerves. It is safe for children as well
as adults and can also be used for a prolonged period without any
contraindications. Passiflora plant is useful in treating patients that are suffering
from emotional problems and for people who have a tendency to be sad or
depressed.
Painkiller
Passion flower is an excellent painkiller, especially when the pain is
related with the problems of the nervous system.
Spasmolytic
Infusions of passion flower or passiflora dyes should be administered if
the spasms are involuntary and are because of the stress on the nervous system.
Also, passion flower is used for treating intestinal spasms of nervous
character and for fighting menstrual cramps.
Circulatory System
Passion flower can potentially decrease
arterial hypertension by reducing the arterial pressure. However, it should not
be taken more than the prescribed dose to avoid any toxic effects.
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