Essence of Passion Flower - Passiflora sp.

GreenWitxh

Sep 1, 20193 min read

Photo of a beautiful white and purple passion flower — Passiflora edulis, photo taken from my garden, 2019

The Passiflora species have been used for centuries in traditional folk medicine. This plant, thought to have originated in Brazil or Peru, is now naturalized in many tropical climates. Since I am a big proponent of using what you have and what is native to your area, I will mainly be focusing on the Passiflora edulis (flavicarpa) AKA the Yellow Passion Fruit variety. Though much research has been done on the P. incarnata (Purple passion flower) species as well, demonstrating many of the same medicinal effects.

This tropical climbing vine grows abundantly here, and can even be considered a weed in some gardens. The fruit of which is a well known and loved flavor worldwide. In Brazil it is called "maracuja," in Hawaii it is called "Lilikoi," and here in Puerto Rico it is known as "Parcha." Passion fruit mojitos anyone?

The pulp is tart, yet slightly sweet, and boasts high concentration of nutritional value, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Potassium, and Magnesium. The consumption of the fruit has also been shown to decrease insulin resistance (anti-diabetic) and improve metabolic health in overweight men.

The plant itself is a sun-loving tropical climbing vine that grows with support by way of axillary curling tendrils that reach out and grab whatever they can. The above ground parts, (flowers, vines, tendrils, and leaves) are what have been used for years to treat neurogenic diseases. Passiflora has been shown to have anxiolytic, anti-depressive, sedative, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. This makes it a great medicine to help those who are prone to anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.* This plant has been shown to increase circulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system. Basically, it decreases the excitability of your brain, decreasing anxiety, and allowing for meaningful rest.

The above ground parts can be dried and an infusion, or tea, can me made. An alcoholic tincture can also be prepared with fresh plant parts to extract the beneficial flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides found in this magical plant.

Spiritually, the passion flower has been a staple in many ritual practices throughout the Americas. It is said that the name Passion Flower came from Catholic Spanish conquistadors who believed there to be a spiritual connection between the flower and the crucifixion of Christ. The filaments resembling the crown of thorns, the tendrils representing the whips, and the three stamens representing the nails in the cross. Among non-christian cultures the passion flower was used to bring peace, love, and harmony into the home. It is said to be ruled by the positive influences of Chiron, which help us to turn inward and see things more clearly. Some new age clairvoyants have said that his plant is a conductor, and easily attunes the mind to higher frequencies by preparing the nervous system to receive subtle information.

"The energies associated with clairvoyance, heightened spiritual states, greater awareness, channeling and even peak experiences of a religious nature take place much more easily with passion flower" (1)

The literature clearly demonstrates many beneficial properties to Passiflora. The next time you are feeling anxious, or having trouble turning off the racing thoughts while trying to sleep, try reaching for passion flower and allow the healing energies to reconnect your body, mind, and spirit.

*The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician or health care provider. The information provided by this website or this company is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a health care provider, and should not be construed as individual medical advice.