What Is Passiflora?

Passiflora is the genus of the passionflower varieties, a hardy climbing vine that is native to the Amazon rain forest. The Passiflora blooms are exotically beautiful --- purple, blue or pink centers surrounded by bold, white petals. Its flowers bloom from April through September. Passiflora also produces edible fruits that are sweet and delicious --- if you have a variety that is fruit-producing and live in the right climate for them to form fruit.

Identification

• Passiflora belongs to the Passifloraceae family, the Passiflora genus. Its most common and popular species are the edulis and incarnata. It is commonly known by several names, such as maracuja, carifelek, passionflower, maypop passionflower, maypop, zahril aalaam, apricot vine, and saa't gulu. The Passiflora varieties were given the name Passionflower by Christian missionaries from Spain, because of the resemblance of its blossoms to the crucifixion story.

Features

• Its tendrils help the Passiflora's herbaceous vine to climb and grow to 25 feet in length. Its flowers can measure to 3 inches in diameter. There are more than 200 species of Passiflora, and the stem, leaves and flowers of the Passiflora are the parts used sometimes for plant medicine.

Geography

• Passiflora grows throughout South America, including the Amazon, as well as in many parts of North America. It grows in many states, including the regions from Delaware to Missouri, and Texas to Florida. It thrives in the sun and partial shade, and in rich, moist soils that have a low-salt content. Passiflora can be found in many areas, including savannas, meadows, near riverbanks and streams, near woodlands, prairies, pastures and plains.

History

• Passiflora was used by the Native Americans for centuries, who brewed a tea from its leaves for insomnia and to calm nerves. They used its root in preparations for inflammation, cuts, bruises, ear problems and skin problems.

Natural Medicine

• As a natural medicine, Passiflora is used to lessen anxiety and reduce spasms, pain and depression, and it calms nerves. It can be used as a tranquilizer and a sedative. It may also kill germs, increase libido, rid the body of worms, and have an effect on lowering blood pressure.
  Passiflora has been regarded as safe by the FDA, and drug interactions and side effects have not been associated with taking Passiflora. But be certain you use only Passiflora incarnata or edulis is you want to make a tea to help relax you --- other varieties might have toxic substances in them. To be on the safe side, always simmer leaves for at least 10 minutes.