Passion flower - Passiflora incarnata
Family:
Passionflower Family - Passifloraceae
Plant parts used:
The herb of fresh shoots - Passiflorae herba.
Description:
Passiflora species are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of North and South America, some of which are colder. Passiflora incarnata is hardy. The strikingly beautiful flowers have a diameter of 6 to 8 cm. They each consist of five petals, sepals and stamens, three pollen scars and a crown of stamens. The stems can be smooth or short-haired; they climb and tendril widely with alternate, three- or five-lobed leaves. The tasty fruit, in the shape and size of a chicken egg, has a mushy consistency and contains many small seeds.
Occurrence:
Passionflowers are common as ornamental and fruit plants all over the world.
Flowering time:
Summer
Yield:
After the ripening of the fruits in late autumn.
Active substances contained:
Passiflorin (an indole alkaloid also present in tobacco smoke), isovitexin and other flavones and flavonoids.
Temperature setting in vaporizer: 190 °C
Feature of action:
analgesic, antispasmodic, anxiety-relieving, toning.
Application:
Naturopathy and aromatherapy use passion flower herb as a herbal sedative.
Phyto inhalation with the herb, improves the physical performance of older people after a short period of use, especially when mixed with hawthorn. The herb also works reliably against muscle cramps, anxiety and nervous disorders. According to the German Drug Book (DAB), it may be administered to children.
Side effects:
There are reports of nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Contrary to an earlier widespread opinion, no MAO inhibitor could be detected in the passion flower species.
Warning: Herbs and their active compounds can have various side effects or interactions with medications, substances or foods.
Please consult your doctor before starting any aromatherapy or healing therapy. Do not vape during pregnancy, not suitable for children.
