Passionflower

At a Glance

Common name

Passionflower

Scientific name

Passiflora incarnata

Family

Passifloraceae

Region

North America

Plant part

Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Limited

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A climbing vine with deeply lobed, three-fingered leaves, curling tendrils, and large, intricate round flowers with a crown of fine purple-and-white filaments over five petals, followed by edible oval fruits (maypops). The aerial parts are medicinal.

Also known as: Maypop, Apricot Vine

Historical Background

Passionflower was used by Indigenous peoples of the southeastern US as a calming remedy and was adopted by eclectic physicians in the 19th century for anxiety and insomnia. Its elaborate flower was named by Spanish missionaries who saw symbols of the Passion of Christ in its structure.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous North American use for anxiety and wounds; adopted by European physicians by the 1840s.

Cultural significance: The flower's anatomy was read as a religious emblem by 16th-century missionaries — a fusion of botany and devotion that gave the plant its name and spread its cultivation worldwide.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Fresh, green, mild

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Passionflower has been studied for anxiety and sleep, with some small trials suggesting modest benefit for generalized anxiety and improved sleep quality, but evidence is limited and studies are small. It is not a treatment for anxiety disorders.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.