Passion Vine Effects

Passion vine, also known as passionflower, has been used for medicinal purposes throughout history. It was originally used by Mayans and Native Americans. Spanish explorers brought the herb to Europe in the 16th century. The term "passion" is used because early Spanish conquistadors thought the flower represented several aspects of the Passion of Christ, which denotes the time between the Last Supper and the Crucifixion.

Sedative

• Passion vine is primarily used as a sedative. Mayans and Native Americans used it in this capacity for an unknown period of time before the Spanish conquistadors found it. The orange berries and purple flower is said to provide a calming effect on the human body. It is used to treat insomnia and anxiety. In Europe, the plant is often used in combination with other ingredients like lemon balm and lavender in over the counter medications. FDA approval of U.S. over-the-counter sales of passion vine as an aid for insomnia was revoked in 1978 due to a lack of sponsored studies and proof of its effectiveness as a sleep aid.

Calming

• A number of studies throughout the world have suggested that passionflower has a calming affect. This makes passion vine an option for treating high blood pressure, as well as certain seizures and fibromyalgia. It is also believed to be an effective treatment for asthma attacks and some stomach ailments.

Withdrawals

• The passion flower is also used in treating withdrawals from drug addiction. It is combined with a drug called clonidine. The passion flower alleviates symptoms like irritability and insomnia, while the clonidine affects the physical symptoms associated with withdrawal.

Treatment of Serious Illness

• Some researchers believe that passion flower may be effective against Parkinson's disease. They speculate that two ingredients in the flower, harmine and harmaline, may retard the progression of the disease. Cancer researchers believe that it's properties may prevent the formation of cancerous tumors.