Do you know the infusion of passionflower? If not, the time has come for you to discover it, as it offers many health benefits, especially if you have trouble falling asleep.
Passionflower, passionflower or passion flower are names that define the plant whose leaves and flowers are used to make infusions and natural medications that help relax the nervous system. You want to know more?
the passionflower plant
Passionflower, Passiflora incarnata by its scientific name, is a climbing plant that can reach 9 meters in length. It is, in fact, a liana that climbs and whose leaves are serrated.
In spring, extremely aromatic and large flowers appear (about 5 centimeters in diameter) that can be yellow, white or purple.
They give rise to some berries that are called granadilla and are seen as small orange-colored fruits with an egg-shaped format. These berries are edible and in some American countries they are consumed in desserts.
Health benefits of passionflower tea
Ayurveda medicine recommends the consumption of passionflower infusion against nervous states caused by stress or emotional problems. Thus, this drink has been used since the 16th century to relieve anxiety, anguish and insomnia. But these are not its only benefits.
Sedative effect
Different studies have proven that passionflower has sedative properties that help combat states of extreme anxiety, even helping to improve stress peaks. Its anxiolytic effect is one of the main causes of recommendation by specialists in natural medicine.
In fact, scientists maintain that regularly consuming passionflower infusion or natural medicines based on this plant would serve as a treatment against the symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, like benzodiapezipines, but with fewer side effects.
Improve memory
Animal research found that after 7 weeks of regular intake of passionflower, the animals had increased amino acid levels and improved memory performance compared to the control group. At the moment, this cannot be extrapolated to humans, but it is an open line of research.
Improve sleep
You suffer from insomnia? Do you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep? Drinking a cup of passion flower may be what you need. A study published in Phytomedicine noted that this plant works by elevating gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.
It is worth clarifying that it is the cause of the reduction in brain activity, that is, it acts by helping to put “the mind blank” and, therefore, to sleep better.
Helps improve menopausal symptoms
If there is something that bothers greatly when menopause arrives, it is hot flashes. Classic hot flashes could be controlled with passionflower infusion, at least according to data from the experts in this study.
Relieves stomach problems
Natural medicine maintains that the infusion of any of the passionflower varieties (incarnata, foetida or serratodigitata) would act by relieving stomach problems such as nausea, stomach heaviness or indigestion.
Although the scientific data is not conclusive, some research has indicated that its antioxidant power could serve to relieve the discomfort caused by stomach ulcers.
How to prepare passionflower infusion
To prepare this infusion you only need a little patience but not too much! You will see that it does not take much more time than putting a bag inside a cup.
Ingredients
- 2 grams of dried passionflower
- 1 cup of water
- optional: honey
Elaboration
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Lower the fire.
- Add the tablespoon of dried passionflower and decoction for 7 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let stand for 10 more minutes.
- Ready! Your passionflower infusion is ready.
- Strain and drink. If you wish, you can add a teaspoon of honey.
Important: Although the intake of passionflower infusion is generally considered safe, it is not recommended in case of pregnancy or lactation. In any case, consult your doctor before starting consumption.
Passionflower infusion may be the best option to relax and regain balance in the face of stressful situations that affect your day to day life. Do not hesitate and enjoy this tasty infusion.