Antimicrobial, antioxidant, hemolytic, anti-anxiety, and antihypertensive activity of passiflora species

The uses here are based on tradition or scientific theories of Passiflora species. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. These traditional uses includes alcohol withdrawal, antibacterial, anti-seizure, anti-spasm, aphrodisiac, asthma, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), burns (skin), cancer, chronic pain, cough, drug addiction, Epstein-Barr virus, fungal infections, gastrointestinal discomfort (nervous stomach), Helicobacter pylori infection, hemorrhoids, high blood pressure, menopausal symptoms (hot flashes), nerve pain and pain (general). Many different species of passiflora contain the saponins. Saponins are common constituents of plants that exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities and frequently possess hemolytic, cytolytic and bactericidal activities. Furthermore, saponins also have plasma cholesterol-lowering activity and are widely utilized as a component of potent adjuvants to boost the immune response, principally when complexed with cholesterol. However, not all Passiflora species contain saponins in their leaves. Natural antioxidants derived from plant extracts have been claimed to have multiple biological activities including vasodilatatory, anti-inflammatory, anticancerogenic, antiviral, and antibacterial effects. The properties of the Passiflora hemolysin, such as its frothing ability, positive color reaction with vanillin, selective extraction with n-butanol, HPLC profile, cholesterol-dependent membrane susceptibility, formation of a stable complex with cholesterol, and rapid erythrocyte lysis kinetics indicate that it is probably a saponin. P. edulis therefore, may be a source of new therapeutic candidates with a spectrum of activity similar to the current anti-inflammatory steroids such as dexamethasone. Passiflora extract is potentially a significant improvement over benzodiazepines in the management of GAD. Passion flower (P. incarnata) is a woody, hairy, climbing vine and is reputed to have sedative/ anxiolytic properties. It has been used widely as an ingredient of herbal remedies, chiefly in the form of a liquid tincture. Passion flower (P. incarnata) is used for the cure of nervous restlessness, sleep disorders, restlessness, nervous stress and anxiety. Passiflora have been tested in humans or animals. Its safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.