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Passiflora incarnata (Passifloraceae)
PASSIONFLOWER, MAYPOP, GRANADILLA
Passionflower, so called after
the resemblance of the "crown" in its flower to Christ's crown of thorns, is
given by herbalists to treat insomnia, restlessness and irritability, and to
relieve muscle spasm associated with nerves.
The name passionflower is unrelated to romance;
it arose because the intricately sculptured corona in the centre of the flower resembles Christ's crown of thorns. A native
of North America, passionflower is grown throughout the world, thriving on rich soils in sunny positions.
It is a perennial vine with a woody, slightly hairy stem and three lobed, pointed, serrated leaves.
Its flowers are cream with purple centres and give way to orange oval fruit containing seeds embedded in a scented pulp.
PARTS USED
Leaves.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Alkaloids, including passiflorine; flavonoids, including saponarin,
vitexin, isovitexin, orientin, and iso-orientin; maltol; sterols.
ACTIONS
Sedative; promotes sleep; reduces muscle tension and spasm;
lowers blood pressure; relieves pain.
MEDICINAL USE
Used as a non-addictive remedy for restlessness, insomnia, and irritability.
It is also given to relieve muscle spasm in conditions such as asthma and intestinal spasm caused by nervous states, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
PREPARATIONS
Infusion, tablets, tincture.
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