Botanical Profile
Passionflower is a herbaceous climbing plant described in European monographs in a traditional calming context. The herb, Passiflorae herba, is used primarily.
Passiflora incarnata L. belongs to the Passifloraceae. The plant has characteristic, complex flowers and climbing shoots with tendrils. Botanically, precise species differentiation within passionflowers is important.
Phytochemistry
Phytochemically, passionflower is associated primarily with flavonoids, C-glycosyl flavones, phenolic compounds and other secondary plant constituents. Vitexin and isovitexin contexts are frequently mentioned in the literature.
Traditional Uses
The EMA/HMPC monograph Community herbal monograph on Passiflora incarnata L., herba (EMA/HMPC/669740/2013) describes traditional-use contexts for nervous tension and sleep-related contexts. ESCOP also includes Passiflorae herba in its monograph framework.
Current Research
Modern research investigates flavonoid profiles, neuropharmacological research fields, and anxiolytic and sleep-related experimental contexts. This research requires differentiated, source-based interpretation.
Sources
- Community herbal monograph on Passiflora incarnata L., herba
- ESCOP Monographs – Passiflorae herba
- Dhawan K et al. Passiflora: a review update. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2004.
Notice
The information presented in this botanical profile has been compiled to the best of our knowledge and belief from botanical, phytochemical, historical and scientific sources. It is intended solely for general professional information and initial orientation.
The content does not constitute an assurance of specific properties, effects, qualities or possible uses of products or extracts. In particular, it does not constitute a guarantee, a statement of suitability, or a statement regarding marketability, permissibility or usability in specific applications or markets.
Assessment of the suitability of a raw material or extract for a particular intended use, as well as compliance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements, is the sole responsibility of the respective user.