Passion Flower

what is passion flower?

passion flower also known as Passiflora incarnata,this flower were discovered by Spanish Jesuits in Peru in the 17th century and were named fot its resemblance crown of thorn worn by Jesus during the crucifixion.

passion flower is a perennial climbing vine with herbaceous shoot and sturdy woody stem.
the flower of passion flower has 5 white petal and 5 sepal that vary in color from magenta to blue.
it also bear a fruits that look like egg-shaped berry that may be yellow or purple, some of the fruits can be eaten.

 for medicinal purpose the above ground parts like flower,leaves and stem of passion flower were being used.

Benefits of this herbs (passion flower)

• scientist believe that can increase the level of GABA in the brain.when the level of GABA increase you will fell more relaxed.
• according to a study, passion flower extract were administered intraperitoneal to a rats.the result show that passion flower can prolonged sleeping time and affected the locomotor activity.
• because of that German Commission E has authorized its use in the treatment of nervous unrest.
• few scientific studies have tested passion flower as treatment for anxiety or insomnia.
• however  the effect of passion flower tend to be milder than valerian or kava.
• passion flower also can used when it comes to stomach problems.one study show that this herbs helpful against ulcers caused by alcohol or aspirin.

how to take passion flower?

• the best way to take this herbs is through tea.steep one tea spoon of dried herb in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes.for anxiety drink 3 to 4 cup per day while for insomnia. drink 1 cup before sleep.
• for tincture and extract follow direction on the label

precaution when taking this herbs

passion flower are consideres safe however extra precation should be take:

• pregnant and breastfeeding are not allowed to take this herbs
• you should take this herbs under the supervision of health care provider because it can trigger side effect and can interact with other herbs,supplements or medication.