Passionflower, also known as the passion flower, is a plant with a rich history of both ornamental and medicinal use. Native to the Americas, it has been valued for its calming and sedative properties, becoming a key natural resource for combating insomnia, anxiety, and stress. Its popularity is not only due to its exotic beauty but also to its effectiveness in treating various conditions without the side effects associated with many conventional medications.

Botanical Description of Passionflower

Passionflower, commonly known as the passion flower, stands out for its botanical diversity. These plants can vary from vines that reach several meters in height to more compact and creeping forms. Their leaves, often segmented or whole, along with the tendrils that allow them to climb, are distinctive characteristics. The flowers, with their complex structure, include a radial crown of filaments that surrounds the stamens and pistils, symbolizing, according to tradition, the elements of the Passion of Christ.

What is Passionflower Used For?

Through clinical studies conducted about two centuries ago, the medicinal properties of this plant have been verified to confirm its benefits and herbal resources in applying treatment to specific diseases such as urinary incontinence in children, menopause, and blood pressure reduction, among others.

The most outstanding benefits of Passionflower are:

Advantages and disadvantages of Passionflower

Helps to Fall Asleep

The acquisition of anxiolytic properties allows for quick sleep induction because it is a mild sedative, clarifying that it is not hypnotic. Likewise, it has been determined that many people with anxiety states have consumed Passionflower because it helps with chronic insomnia. It is suggested to consume three capsules with dinner and then three tablets before going to bed to progressively induce sleep.

Ally for Menstrual Pains

Back pain often presents in the form of colic, which produces a lot of irritation, and that is where Passionflower, through its antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, provides relief.

Relieves Indigestion

By presenting antispasmodic and antioxidant components, it provides good digestion and can reduce gastrointestinal spasms.

Fights Acne

Through the seeds of passionflower, an oil containing linolenic acid (from the omega-three family) is extracted, which aids in the growth and restoration of cells. Its application on the skin restores the epidermis in these cases.

Relieves Headaches

Being an analgesic like a mild sedative, it reduces headaches and promotes balance in people with emotional stress. On the other hand, it can also be ingested through infusions or capsules to reduce symptoms that cause dizziness or headaches.

Common Types of Passionflower

Passiflora edulis (Passion Fruit): Famous for its edible fruits with an intense and exotic flavor, it is one of the most cultivated and appreciated species worldwide.

Passiflora caerulea: Valued for its cold resistance and ornamental flowers, it is a popular choice in gardens.

Passiflora incarnata: Known for its medicinal properties, especially as a natural sedative, it is widely used in phytotherapy.

Passiflora quadrangularis (Gulupa): Notable for its large edible fruits and is mainly cultivated in tropical regions.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Passionflower

The cultivation of Passionflower has been extensive throughout almost the entire American territory, which has allowed its regular use. Likewise, it is convenient to know its advantages and disadvantages to make proper use.

Advantages

  • Due to its benefits, patients can count on various presentations and use them well.
  • They can be acquired in any herbalist or drugstore.
  • Health organizations endorse its medicinal properties.
  • In Germany, its application on the nervous system and its contribution to skin nutrition and recovery stand out.
  • The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has certified Passionflower for its anxiolytic, sedative, and hypnotic properties. Different medications can contain its components.

Disadvantages

  • There are contraindications in patients vulnerable to the formula.
  • The request must be under medical supervision for ages up to 12 years.

Properties of Passionflower

The most outstanding properties of this plant are praised for providing its consumers with an alternative to calm and relax different ailments, in addition to other functions such as:

Consumption Passionflower
  • An excellent calming and relaxing agent.
  • Sedative benefits that help induce sleep.
  • It is analgesic and anti-inflammatory.
  • Presents indole alkaloids.
  • Promotes astringency due to the presence of tannins.
  • It is an antioxidant.
  • Has antispasmodic properties.

This plant can be found in the South of Mexico and the United States; without forgetting that its providence comes from Peru and Brazil, however, it can also be found throughout the Americas.

How to Ingest Passionflower

Like all medications, it is recommended to ingest according to the dose recommended by the specialist without making excessive use of it. It can be consumed using:

Infusions: Make intakes of 2-3 cups daily.

Tablets: NS Soñaben Bi-Effect 1.85 mg, Melatonin 60 tablets can be acquired, and 90 mg per day should be consumed.

Oil: Used for massaging and restoring the skin.

Syrups: Two tablespoons a day are recommended, as long as they are the treatment doses.

Tincture: 50 to 60 drops a day in water or fruit juice are recommended and can be digested in three doses.

Capsule: The dose should not exceed 300 mg. Allows for restorative sleep.

Contraindications of Passionflower

If unpleasant side effects such as stomach acidity, nausea, dizziness, and allergies occur in those who react to the components of the formulas, it is advisable to consult the treating physician and suspend its use. Additionally, it is contraindicated in the following cases:

Pregnant Women: During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it should not be consumed because it contains alkaloids that cause contractions.

Patients in Treatment: It cannot be applied to those who are undergoing treatment with Lorazepam.

Contraindication in Children: As Passionflower is a plant with specific medicinal characteristics, in cases of babies, direct consultation with the doctor for the application of treatment is necessary.

Additional Uses of Passionflower

Passionflower is not only appreciated for its medicinal properties but also for its multiple additional uses that encompass culinary, ornamental, cosmetic, and spiritual aspects.

Culinary Uses

Passionflower, especially through its most known variety, passion fruit (Passiflora edulis), stands out in gastronomy. Its juicy pulp and seeds are incorporated into a wide range of recipes, from juices and smoothies to jams, desserts, and exotic sauces for savory dishes. Its unique flavor, a mix between sweet and sour, enriches each dish with a tropical touch.

Ornamental Uses

In the ornamental aspect, Passionflowers are valued for their lush floral beauty. Their flowers, with a complex structure and vivid colors, make these plants a popular choice for gardens and green spaces, providing a visual spectacle from spring to fall. Additionally, their climbing nature makes them ideal for covering pergolas, walls, and fences, creating spaces full of life and color.

Cosmetic Uses

In cosmetics, the oil extracted from Passionflower seeds is a prized ingredient for its moisturizing and regenerative properties. Rich in essential fatty acids, this oil is used in formulations for skin care, helping to maintain hydration, improve elasticity, and combat signs of aging. Its application in hair care products is also common, favoring strong and healthy hair.

Spiritual Uses

Passionflower has been used in spiritual and meditative practices, taking advantage of its relaxing and sedative properties. It is believed to facilitate connection with the inner self and the environment, promoting states of calm and serenity. In some cultures, it is used in ceremonies to foster spiritual peace and emotional well-being.