Passionflower
The name of the passion flower is derived from the Passion of Christ, which missionaries saw in the flowers. The first reports of its use come from Francisco Hernández in the 16th century. The passion flower (Passiflora incarnata) originally comes from the tropical and subtropical regions of America, particularly the south of the USA and Central and South America. It was used by indigenous people long before the arrival of Europeans. In the 16th century, Spanish missionaries discovered the plant and brought it to Europe, where it quickly became popular due to its striking and symbolic flowers. Today, the passion flower is cultivated in many warm regions of the world, including Spain, Italy and India. It is known for its calming properties and is used in various forms, from tea to extracts.
Bioactive compounds
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a flowering plant known for its calming properties and is traditionally used in various cultures to treat anxiety, insomnia and pain. The petals, leaves and stems of the plant are the main sources of its bioactive compounds, which include flavonoids, indole alkaloids and other phytochemicals. The flavonoids are best known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while the indole alkaloids are thought to be responsible for the passionflower's potentially anxiolytic effects. Despite the widespread use of passionflower, it should be noted that most research on the plant has been conducted on a small scale. Although the results are promising, further studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and understand the exact mechanisms of its calming effects.
Potential health benefits
Passionflower is often valued for its potential sedative and anti-anxiety properties. Passionflower's bioactive compounds may contribute to healthy aging and longevity by promoting mental health and reducing oxidative stress. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to the aging process.
In addition, passionflower may help maintain cognitive function and mental clarity as we age through its influence on the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signaling pathway - one of the major inhibitory systems in the brain. The flavonoids in passionflower also have a potential anti-inflammatory effect, which could promote overall health and well-being by reducing chronic inflammation - a common problem associated with ageing.
Passionflower and sleep
Passionflower is widely known for its sleep-inducing effects, particularly for mild insomnia or relaxation problems. The calming effect of passionflower is thought to be due to its ability to increase GABA levels in the brain, which can reduce brain activity and promote a sense of calmness, making it easier to fall asleep. Some studies have shown that drinking passionflower tea or taking passionflower as a dietary supplement can improve overall sleep quality, although the effects on other aspects of sleep, such as sleep onset and duration, are less clear. These results suggest that passionflower could be a valuable addition to a sleep-enhancing regimen, especially for people who prefer natural remedies.
About our passion flower extract
Our carefully selected Passiflora incarnata extract is grown and processed in Italy. It is obtained from the flowering herb, which is grown in spring and summer. The extraction process is standardized with at least 3.5% total flavonoids as vitexin. The extract meets the standards of the European Pharmacopoeia with regard to heavy metals, pesticides and microbiological quality. It is free from genetically modified organisms, allergens and gluten. The extract is gluten-free, suitable for vegans and vegetarians and, like all raw materials used by ASPRIVA, complies with European regulations on pesticide residues and contaminants.
