Also known asPassiflora incarnata, Passiflora caerulea, Apricot Vine, Blue and Purple Passionflower, and Maypop.IntroductionPassionflower is a climbing vine native to South Texas, Mexico, andCentral America. Growing to a length of 30 feet (9 meters) under idealconditions, the vine bears three-lobed leaves, purple flowers, andyellow-to-orange egg-shaped fruit. The name of the plant comes ananalogy between the plant’s ornate flower to the elements of thecrucifixion of Jesus, white and purple to symbolize heaven and purity,five stamens for the five wounds he suffered, three style for the threenails used to affix him to the cross. A Spanish doctor named NicolasMonardes was the first to document the flower used in Peru in 1569,which he then brought back to Europe with him, where its popularityspread quite rapidly as a sedative. It was later classified by Linnaeusin 1745, when he noted over 20 species. Nowadays, there are reputablyover 400 different species.ConstituentsChrysin, harmane, harmaline.Parts UsedDried leaves and stems. Passionflower powder must be stored attemperatures below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C), and should be usedwithin six months of purchase.Typical PreparationsTeas, tinctures and encapsulations. Sometimes found in relaxing bath blends and sleep pillow mixes.SummaryHerbalists in Mexico, Central America, and Texas have usedpassionflower as a calmative and sleeping aid for over 200 years.Currently there is a German E monograph for passionflower citing its useas having sedative qualities.PrecautionsPregnant women should avoid passionflower, since it can stimulateuterine contractions. Safe dosages for children under 6 have not beenestablished. Caution should be used buy those on other sedatives aspassionflower may intensify the effects.For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.Your browser does not support JavaScript.To view this page, enable JavaScript if it is disabled or upgrade your browser.