Passion Flower and Alternative Health

Sometimes, you just need to relax. When the stress of work and everyday life gets to you, you may need something to help calm your nerves and assist your body's ability toward serenity and well-being. It is no surprise, therefore, that many people look to alternative methods for relaxation. Health shops provide a number of supplements containing natural ingredients designed to assist the body's ability to become sedate, some of which have been used for centuries outside the Western world.

The Amazon Rain Forest, for one, yields many herbs, plants, and trees which are cultivated for medicinal use. The Passion Flower is one such plant, claimed by the natives to be an effective, natural sedative.

What is Passion Flower?

Passion Flower, or Passiflora edulis, gets it names from the Spanish missionaries who visited the New World in the early centuries. Upon seeing the rain forest's wood vine sprouting large white flowers centered with bright pinks and purples, it was believed the flowers bore similarities to images of the Crucifixion, or Passion, of Christ. Passion Flower is indigenous to tropical areas of South America, and yields a small fruit the flowers which are used for various healthful purposes.

What is so great about Passion Flower?

When taking properly, Passion Flower is believed to act as a natural sedative. The passion flower as used by the natives is believed to soothe the nerves and help reduce headaches, anxiety and other symptoms associated with stress. The rain forest natives also believe that passion flower works as an aid to relieve insomnia. It's believed effect on the central nervous system contributes to the testament of passion flower's tranquilizing properties.

Does Passion Flower cure any illnesses?

Despite the abilities as claimed by the Brazilian people, passion flower is not viewed as a cure-all, but a supplement to aid the body's natural abilities. People interested in using passion flower as a supplement are advised to consult a physician.

Where can I buy Passion Flower?

Passion flower is fast becoming a popular means of alternative health. Specialty health shops may offer supplements and vitamins containing some form of passion flower, but it is important to check all labels first. Be certain the purest form of passion flower is available, direct from the Amazon Rain Forest, and be mindful of any side effects that may occur.