Passion flower has been used to treat insomnia, hysteria, and epilepsy, and is also valued for its painkilling properties. Passion Flower contains beta-carboline harmala alkaloids which are MAOi's with anti-depressant properties. Since it contains MAOIs, passion flower has been used to enhance the effects of mind-altering drugs.
MEDICINAL USES
Folk remedies have used this herb to treat depression, insomnia, and hemorrhoids. An approved sedative in Germany, it is employed today to treat nervous agitation and mild insomnia. It's mild sedative and spasmolytic properties are attributed to its flavonoids and alkaloids; especially harmalas, which inhibit oxygen consumption by the brain. These compounds are also thought to decrease circulatory and respiratory rates by reducing arterial pressure. Some consider its alkaloids, harmine and harmaline, effective against Parkinson's disease. Other Passiflora species contain constituents that act against molds, yeasts, and bacteria.