Next Article in Journal
Study on Modeling and Evaluating Alfalfa Yield and Optimal Water Use Efficiency in the Agro-Pastoral Ecotone of Northern China
Previous Article in Journal
NMR Metabolomics and Chemometrics of Commercial Varieties of Phaseolus vulgaris L. Seeds from Italy and In Vitro Antioxidant and Antifungal Activity
Previous Article in Special Issue
Exploring the Sustainable Exploitation of Bioactive Compounds in Pelargonium sp.: Beyond a Fragrant Plant
 
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
Journals
Plants
Volume 13
Issue 2
10.3390/plants13020228
plants-logo
Submit to this Journal Review for this Journal Propose a Special Issue
► Article Menu

Article Menu

share Share announcement Help format_quote Cite question_answer Discuss in SciProfiles thumb_up
...
Endorse textsms
...
Comment
first_page
settings
Order Article Reprints
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Review

Chemical Compositions, Pharmacological Properties and Medicinal Effects of Genus Passiflora L.: A Review

by
Krastena Nikolova
1,*,
Margarita Velikova
2,
Galia Gentscheva
3,*,
Anelia Gerasimova
4,
Pavlo Slavov
5,
Nikolay Harbaliev
5,
Lubomir Makedonski
4,
Dragomira Buhalova
6,
Nadezhda Petkova
7 and
Anna Gavrilova
8
1
Department of Physics and Biophysics, Medical University-Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
2
Department of Physiology, Medical University-Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
3
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Medical University-Pleven, 5800 Pleven, Bulgaria
4
Department of Chemistry, Medical University-Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
5
Faculty of Medicine, Medical University-Varna, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria
6
Department of Nutrient and Catering, University of Food Technology, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
7
Department of Organic Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry, University of Food Technology, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
8
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Medical University-Pleven, 5800 Pleven, Bulgaria
*
Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Plants 2024, 13(2), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13020228
Submission received: 2 December 2023 / Revised: 7 January 2024 / Accepted: 9 January 2024 / Published: 13 January 2024
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Exploitation of Plant-Based Matrices—Biologically Active Compounds and Their Extraction, Applications, and Potential Health Benefits)
Browse Figures
Review Reports Versions Notes

Abstract

:
Practically all aboveground plants parts of Passiflora vines can be included in the compositions of dietary supplements, medicines, and cosmetics. It has a diverse chemical composition and a wide range of biologically active components that determine its diverse pharmacological properties. Studies related to the chemical composition of the plant are summarized here, and attention has been paid to various medical applications—(1) anti-inflammatory, nephroprotective; (2) anti-depressant; (3) antidiabetic; (4) hepatoprotective; (5) antibacterial and antifungal; and (6) antipyretic and other. This review includes studies on the safety, synergistic effects, and toxicity that may occur with the use of various dietary supplements based on it. Attention has been drawn to its application in cosmetics and to patented products containing passionflower.

1. Introduction

The majority of species of the genus Passiflora L. are vines [1]. The fruits of most species are used for the preparation of juices, jams, and soft drinks. The byproducts isolated from the fruit waste products and pulp are included in the compositions of dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and food products [2].
The Passifloraceae family consists of 16 genera, including more than 600 species [3]. The genus Passiflora alone contains more than 450 species, most of them indigenous to the tropics and subtropics of the New World. Most Passiflora species are used in the pharmaceutical and food industries, cosmetics, and more. The most common species are Passiflora edulis Sims (purple passion fruit), Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa O. Deg (yellow passion fruit), Passiflora ligularis Juss. (sweet granadilla), Passiflora tarminiana Coppens & V. E. Barney (banana passion fruit), Passiflora nitida Kunth (bell apple), Passiflora setacea DC. (sururuca), Passiflora incarnata L., Passiflora quadrangularis L. (giant granadilla), and ‘Kaveri’ Hybrid passion fruit (purple and yellow) [3]. The species distributions and fruit descriptions of some Passiflora representatives are listed in Table 1.
The rich chemical composition of Passiflora species predetermines their diverse applications in treating insomnia [7], anxiety [8], epilepsy, asthma [9], and high blood pressure [10]. Among the Passiflora species, P. edulis and P. incarnata are the most frequently used ones in pharmacology and medicine.
Several pharmacological studies indicate that various bioactive components, such as polyphenols, triterpenes, carotenoids, polysaccharides, amino acids, essential oils, and flavonoids, contribute to the antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects of Passiflora species [11,12,13,14,15,16]. Besides their medicinal applications, the fruits of certain species are utilized in the food industry due to their richness in dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds [17].
The purpose of this review is to systematize the knowledge about the chemical composition and biological activity of the different plant parts of Passiflora species and relate it to their applications in medicine and cosmetics.

2. Taxonomy

The taxonomic classification of the Passiflora L. [18] genus and Figure 1, showing the flowers and fruits of some Passiflora species, are below:
Kingdom: Plantae.
Phylum: Tracheophyta.
Subphylum: Spermatophytina.
Class: Magnoliopsida.
Superorder: Rosanae.
Order: Malpighiales.
Family: Passifloraceae.
Genus: Passiflora.
Due to the extensive species diversity in the Passiflora genus, its generalized and at the same time unambiguous description can be challenging. In summary, most Passiflora species are lianas, vines, or herbaceous plants, mostly climbing, with axillary tendrils. Nevertheless, there are some tree species as well. The stems are cylindrical, angular, or, less often, winged. All species have well-developed stipules. Leaves are alternate, simple, entire, lobed, or palmate, rarely compound. A distinctive feature of the genus is the extrafloral nectarines. The flowers are axillary, regular, and hermaphroditic. The perianth has five sepals and five petals, often similar in color and shape. Its color varies from flat green to violet or red. Maybe the most characteristic floral feature of the Passiflora genus is the centrally positioned filamentous corona with circular flower nectar at the base. The famous edible fruits of the genus are yellow or orange-to-red capsules with many seeds.

3. Chemical Composition

Polyphenols are one of the main classes of compounds in Passiflora species. They are associated with the color and astringent taste of the drinks prepared from the fruits [19]. According to Wen et al., the peel of P. edulis and P. edulis f. flavicarpa also contains fiber (22.5%), pectin (12.5%), and polysaccharides (20.62%) [20]. The insoluble dietary fiber in P. edulis seeds is over 64.1%. In addition, the fruits are rich in some flavonoids, such as apigenin-3-rhamnoside (4.01 mg/100 g), luteolin-3-glucoside (3.63 mg/100 g), quercetin (2.21 mg/100 g), and kaempferol (1.78 mg/100 g) [21]. The flavonoids might contribute to the antiallergic, antitumor, antiviral, and neuroprotective effects of P. edulis [22]. These compounds act as scavengers of oxygen-reactive species and reduce oxidative stress [23]. There is evidence that flavonoids can cross the blood–brain barrier and possibly have a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases [24].
The flavonoids apigenin and chrysin in P. incarnata are associated with a sedative effect [25]. Additionally, flavonoids can act by protecting DNA against oxidative damage and possess antiviral, antiallergic, cytotoxic, and therapeutic properties [26,27]. The classification of flavonoid types and their contents in the fruit and peel of different Passiflora species are presented in Figure 2.
Information on the chemical compositions of different Passiflora species is presented in Table 2.
Phenolic compounds are not only present in the pulp, peel, and fruits of Passiflora, but also in the leaves, which are rich in flavonoids such as apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, and kaempferol [43,44,45]. In addition, Passiflora fruits are also rich in nitrogen, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus. For example, yellow passion fruit contains 2400 mg of nitrogen per 100 g of pulp [46]. Potassium is essential for cell functions, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle contractions, and its content in the fruits varies among the separate species, from 1440 to 3800 mg per 100 g of pulp [47,48,49].
Passiflora species differ in mineral content and antioxidant activity, with P. setacea being high in potassium, calcium, magnesium, and more [50]. P. nitida stands out for its iron content and high antioxidant potential [51,52,53,54]. Iron is an essential element involved in various metabolic processes, including oxygen transport in blood and electron transport in the mitochondria [46,55].
Some species, like P. edulis and P. ligularis, are rich in zinc (Zn), but in addition to Zn P. ligularis also contains high concentrations of copper (Cu) [46,49,56]. Therefore, the consumption of P. ligularis should be encouraged, which can be used as a micronutrient supplement to improve natural immunity against COVID-19 and its new variants [57]. In a small number of sources there are also data on the mineral compositions of the leaves of the plant, since they are mainly used for different types of extracts (water, alcohol, or water–alcohol). According to Freitas et al., P. edulis f. flavicarpa leaves are rich in calcium and zinc, with their content strongly influenced by the growing season. In young leaves, the levels of Zn, N, and P are high, while those of Ca, Mg, B, Cl, and Mn are relatively low [58]. In addition to minerals, passion fruit is also rich in vitamins, containing vitamin C (30.7 mg/100 g) and high levels of provitamin A (233.2 μg/100 g) [59]. Table 3 presents the vitamin compositions of juices prepared from some types of passionflower.
Passiflora fruits are also rich in dietary fiber, including carbohydrate polymers such as oligosaccharides, pectin-type polysaccharides, inulin, cellulose, and more. The fruit is the main source of fiber, and several studies have revealed its potential use as an ingredient in the food industry. Figure 3 summarizes studies on fiber content in Passiflora species, and Table 4 presents the chemical structures of specific compounds found in Passiflora as well as their pharmacological effects.
Ethanolic extracts from Passiflora leaves exhibit sedative and antidepressant effects attributed to the presence of cycloartane triterpenoid saponins, specifically cyclopacifloside XII and cyclopacifloside XIII [61]. Various parts of many Passiflora species are rich in amino acids and flavonoids. For example, the pulp of P. edulis f. flavicarpa is abundant in both essential and non-essential amino acids (11.88–12.21 g/100 g pulp). Arginine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid collectively make up approximately 50% of all amino acids [62]. The total amino acid content varies among different Passiflora species; for instance, J. R. Souza et al. reported that P. alata contains 10.46 mg/g of amino acids, P. edulis f. flavicarpa has 7.74 mg/g, and P. incarnata contains 5.98 mg/g. [63]. P. edulis fruits and leaves contain alkaloids such as harmidine, harmine, harmane, harmol, N-trans-feruloyltyramine, and cis-N-feruloyl tyramine. These alkaloids inhibit monoamine oxidase A, suppress tumor growth and progression, and also inhibit the NF-kB signaling pathway, leading to anti-inflammatory effects [15,64,65].
The Passiflora fruit is highly acidic, with a pH level around 3.0 due to the presence of citric and malic acids [65]. Purple-variety fruits are typically consumed raw, while yellow-variety fruits are used to make soft drinks, juice concentrates, ice creams, and jams [4]. Sugar content varies among different Passiflora species, with yellow and purple fruits having higher sugar contents than more sour species. [4]. The primary sugars found in Passiflora fruit pulp are glucose, fructose, and sucrose [4]. Sema and Maiti [66] compared the total sugar content of three Passiflora species. The sugar contents of ripe fruits of some Passiflora species passion fruit are presented in Figure 4 [66]. The total content of major nutrients [4] in ripe fruits of some Passiflora species is presented in Figure 5.

4. Medical Effects and Activities in Pharmacy

Plants belonging to the Passiflora genus have a long history of use in traditional medicine for various health benefits, some of which are presented in Figure 6. Extracts from all plant parts of Passiflora, including fruit, bud, peel, and leaf, have been examined for antioxidant [67], antibacterial [68], anti-inflammatory [69], hepatoprotective, nephroprotective [70], antifungal [71], anti-fatigue, and other activities [72]. Evidence from experimental, preclinical, and clinical studies supports the hypnotic, anxiolytic, anti-depressant, anticonvulsant, and neuroprotective effects of Passiflora species.

4.1. Sedative and Anxiolytic Activities

Regarding sedative and anxiolytic effects, clinical studies have shown that P. incarnata extract can reduce tension, restlessness, and nervous irritability, making it beneficial for alleviating insomnia and anxiety. Passiflora extract has been compared to conventional anxiolytic drugs in various studies, suggesting that it may serve as an alternative or adjunct treatment option [73]. In recent years, the rates of depressive and anxious symptoms have increased due to COVID-19 [74], as well as the administration of antidepressants and antianxiety medications; however, many side effects are associated with their use, such as dependence and sexual problems. According to R. J. Bloomer et al., taking passionflower extract increased free salivary testosterone by 17% in men over 55 years of age and libido by 9%. Similar results were not observed in the group of examined men of about 35 years of age. According to the research team, the treatment is effective in individuals with low baseline testosterone levels [75]; therefore, phytotherapeutic preparations are increasingly recommended [76]. In a clinical study, it was found that an intake of 45 drops per day of P. incarnata extract for 28 days produces effects similar to those of oxazepam (a benzodiazepine) [77]. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study, orally administered as a premedication, P. incarnata reduced pre-operative anxiety with a similar effect to oral oxazepam [78]. In another study, the oral preoperative administration of P. incarnata suppressed anxiety before spinal anesthesia without changing psychomotor functions, sedation level, or hemodynamics [79]. In addition, it was reported that P. incarnata reduces dental anxiety in patients undergoing periodontal treatments [80]. These studies suggest that Passiflora extract may be a useful alternative or adjuvant to conventional anxiolytic drugs. A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation on healthy adults with mild sleep disturbances reveals the beneficial effects on sleep quality of the low-dose consumption of P. incarnata in the form of tea [81]. The dysfunction of the GABA system is implicated in anxiety and depressive disorders. The pharmacological effects of P. incarnata are thought to be mediated via the modulation of the GABA system, including affinity for GABA(A) and GABA(B) receptors as well as GABA uptake [82]. Additionally, Passiflora extract has shown beneficial effects on some neurological disorders, although further research is needed to determine the specific parts of the plant used in these studies and the optimal dosages.

4.2. Anti-Depressant Activities

The forced swimming test (FST) in mice is commonly used as a behavioral test in assessing the antidepressant activity of substances. A study reported acute antidepressant-like effects of the aqueous extracts of P. edulis f. flavicarpa (1000 mg/kg, p.o.) and P. edulis f. edulis (300 mg/kg, p.o.) applied to mice in the FST [83]. The antidepressant activities of both P. edulis extract and extract-loaded nanoparticles were demonstrated in mice using the FST, with a 10-fold higher potency of the nanoparticles [84].
A study suggested that the products of the metabolism of P. edulis, possibly flavonoids, available in aqueous extract, and its fractions, butanol (BuOH, 25–50 mg/kg, p.o.) and ethyl acetate (AcOEt, 25–50 mg/kg, p.o.), are promoting antidepressant-like actions in mice. Evidence is presented that the antidepressant-like effect of the fractions may be dependent on monoaminergic neurotransmission [85].

4.3. Antidiabetic Activities

The antidiabetic effects of different parts of P. edulis have been investigated. In vivo experiments with rats showed that the 4 h consumption of 50 and 100 mg/kg leaf extract from Passiflora suberosa L. (cork-barked passionflower) produced a significant hypoglycemic effect. Fasting blood glucose levels decreased by 18%; following an oral sucrose challenge, intestinal glucose absorption was inhibited by 79%. The levels of total cholesterol decreased by 17%, and that of tri-glyceraldehydes decreased by 12% in the treated groups. The results suggest that the leaves of P. suberosa can be used to manage blood glucose and cholesterol levels [18]. The oral administration of P. edulis peel and seed extract for 15 days improved blood glucose levels in diabetic rats in a model of streptozotocin-induced oxidative stress [86]. Stilbenes such as scirpusin B and piceatannol, separated from the seeds of P. edulis, exhibited α-glucosidase inhibitory activity in vitro [87].
A randomized, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 39 subjects to evaluate the effects of piceatannol (20 mg/day), extracted from the seeds of P. edulis, on metabolic health. Supplementation with piceatannol reduced serum insulin levels, blood pressure, and heart rate in overweight men. It was suggested that piceatannol could be successfully included in nutritional supplements to improve insulin sensitivity in obese men [88]. In a clinical trial, 36 HIV patients with lipodystrophic syndrome secondary to antiretroviral therapy consumed 30 g/day of passion fruit peel flour (PFPF) with diet therapy for 90 days. The use of passion fruit peel flour effectively reduced total cholesterol as well as triacylglycerides and increased HDL cholesterol [89].

4.4. Hepatoprotective Activities

P. edulis leaves showed hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. The ethanol extract from the leaves significantly reduced the levels of serum markers of liver damage, such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). It also reduced the levels of oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased the levels of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) [90]. The hepatoprotective and nephroprotective activities of peel extracts from three varieties of Passiflora species (Passiflora verrucifera Lindl., P. edulis, and P. ligularis) administered to albino rats have been examined. All three extracts demonstrated hepatoprotection and nephroprotection in a dose-dependent manner; the most potent was the activity of P. edulis peel extract [70]. P. edulis peel flour also has a beneficial effect in a model of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in rats, where it reduces markers of liver damage as well as oxidative stress and improves liver histology [91]. P. edulis peel flour (PEPF) supplementation for 8 weeks prevented insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, and adiposity induced by a low-fructose diet in young rats [92].

4.5. Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity

Water extract of P. edulis, 8 mg/mL, has shown antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Salmonella typhimurium, and various fungi (Aspergillus fumigatus, A. versicolor, A. niger, Penicillium funiculosum, P. ochloron, and Trichoderma viride) [71]. A study examined the antibacterial activity of P. edulis seed extract against Propionibacterium acnes, associated with acne. An inhibitory effect on P. acnes growth was observed, comparable to antibiotics such as clindamycin and erythromycin [69]. Antibacterial properties of Passiflora foetida L. leaf and fruit ethanol and acetone extracts were demonstrated against four pathogenic bacteria: Pseudomonas putida, Vibrio cholerae, Shigella flexneri, and Streptococcus pyogenes. The ethanol extract showed a broader spectrum of antibacterial activity, while the acetone extract was most potent against V. cholerae. The leaf extracts exhibited better antibacterial activity than the fruits [93]. Antimicrobial proteins from P. edulis inhibited the growth of yeasts (Kluyveromyces marxiannus, Candida albicans, and Candida parapsilosis) and impaired the fungal metabolism of Saccharomyces cerevisiae as well as C. albicans. Some results suggest that 2S albumins might serve as targets for designing new antifungal drugs [94,95].

4.6. Anti-Inflammatory and Antipyretic Activities

Numerous reports indicate the anti-inflammatory activity of Passiflora species. A study evaluated the inhibitory effects of fruit extracts from P. edulis f. flavicarpa, P. edulis, and P. ligularis on inflammation-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction in Caco-2 cells. [28]. Acetone extracts of Passiflora subpeltata, administered orally, demonstrated dose-dependent anti-inflammatory effects on a carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats [96]. Ethanol extract of P. foetida leaves at a dose of 100 mg/kg exhibited a significant anti-inflammatory effect in two rat models—carrageenan-induced and histamine-induced paw edema [97].
Another study demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of Passiflora ethanolic extract upon intragastric administration in rats, at doses ranging from 75 to 500 mg/kg [98]. P. edulis f. flavicarpa aqueous leaf extract, administered intraperitoneally, exerted anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting leukocytes, neutrophils, myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, TNF-alpha, and IL-1 beta levels in carrageenan-induced pleurisy [99]. Aqueous extract of P. edulis leaves showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on a 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid-induced colitis model, improving antioxidant status and decreasing lipid peroxidation in serum, the liver, and the colon [100]. Acetone extracts of Passiflora leschenaultii DC. leaves exhibited acute and chronic anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan and cotton-pellet-induced rat models. Leaf extracts, at a dose of 400 mg/kg (PO), reduced pain, inflammation, and showed antipyretic effects comparable to those of paracetamol [101].

4.7. Antitumor Activity

P. alata leaf extract showed cytotoxic potential against cancer cell lines [102]. Antitumor activity is exhibited by extracts of P. edulis f. flavicarpa in both in vitro and in vivo models. A study explored the effects of leaf and juice extracts of P. edulis f. flavicarpa on liver cancer cells (HepG2); the leaf extract had a higher polyphenolic content, while the juice extract contained more polysaccharides. The juice extract at 400 μg/mL reduced cell viability, while the leaf extract at 25 μg/mL increased cytotoxicity, and both extracts enhanced proapoptotic activity [103]. Extracts of P. edulis f. flavicarpa were examined for in vitro cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cells, as well as for in vivo antitumor activity in male Balb/c mice inoculated with Ehrlich carcinoma cells. The fluid extract exhibited higher antitumor activity compared to the crude extract, resulting in a 48.5% inhibition of tumor growth in Balb/c mice and increased lifespan by approximately 42% [104].

4.8. Cardiovascular Effects

Experimental data reveal the therapeutic potential of Passiflora species in cardiovascular diseases. An ethanolic extract of P. edulis leaves was found to reduce blood pressure in hypertensive rats, induce the relaxation of aortic rings, decrease heart rate, and inhibit calcium influx in vascular smooth muscle cells. These effects may be attributed to the presence of flavonoids in Passiflora extract [105]. In another study, an ethanol extract of Passiflora was demonstrated to increase the force of cardiac muscle contraction in animal models without affecting blood pressure [106]. Additionally, the peel extract of P. edulis reduced serum nitric oxide levels, blood pressure, and hemodynamic parameters in spontaneously hypertensive rats [107,108]. The vascular benefits are attributed to compounds like piceatannol in P. edulis seeds [109]. A study investigated the effect of the consumption of Passiflora setacea DC. juice on inflammation, metabolic parameters, and gene expression in circulating immune cells in humans. The analysis revealed 1327 differentially expressed genes after juice consumption, including those involved in inflammation, cell adhesion, and cytokine–cytokine receptor processes. These results suggest that P. setacea consumption may help prevent cardiometabolic diseases [110].

4.9. Application in Cosmetics

Aqueous and ethyl acetate extracts from the seed residue of Passiflora juice processing exhibited potent antioxidant activity. The ethyl acetate extract also demonstrated ferric-reducing power and a tyrosinase inhibitory effect. The recovered antioxidant fraction holds promise as a sunscreen and skin-lightening agent, making it suitable for inclusion in anti-aging products due to its antioxidant activity and UV protection properties [111]. Additionally, an aromatic oil obtained from residues during passion fruit processing showed a high saponification index, making it suitable for use in manufacturing soaps, shampoos, and cleaning products [112]. P. edulis seed extract was found to stimulate collagen production and inhibit elastin degradation, preserving skin moisture and elasticity [113]. Lipid nanoparticles containing passion fruit seed oil as a liquid lipid and glyceryl distearate as a solid lipid were deemed suitable for skin administration and could be incorporated into semi-solid formulations to enhance their skin applications [114].

5. Adverse Reactions and Clinical Side Effects

Side effects associated with Passiflora flower extracts have been rarely reported and may include allergic reactions, sinus irritation, rhinitis, and skin rashes [115,116]; however, it is believed that these reactions are more likely due to various other components that combine with Passiflora preparations. One case reported nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and tachycardia in an individual after taking Passiflora [117]. Due to its sedative effects, Passiflora may cause drowsiness and increase reaction time, so caution is advised when driving or operating heavy machinery. There is also a theoretical risk of increased clotting time. While cases of liver toxicity related to the use of kava kava (Piper methysticum G.Forst.) have been identified, not many cases related to Passiflora toxicity have been reported; however, there is one report of a patient who died from liver failure after consuming a product containing both kava and P. incarnata. This suggests a potential synergistic effect between these substances, leading to severe outcomes [118].

5.1. Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Toxicity

A benzoflavone (BZF) was identified in the aerial parts of P. incarnata. BZF, when administered concurrently with the cannabinoid delta 9-THC to mice, prevented the development of dependence and tolerance to cannabinoids [119]. Preliminary studies also evaluated the use of BZF from P. incarnata for treating nicotine addiction, where mice administered with combinations of nicotine and BZF exhibited reduced withdrawal effects compared to those treated with nicotine alone [120]. The comparison of the effects of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the aerial parts of P. incarnata showed that the action of the aqueous extract was more potent, even at low doses [121]. P. edulis is generally considered non-toxic. In vivo studies showed that an ethanolic extract at a dose of 550 mg/kg had no toxic effects on rats. Aqueous leaf extracts, even at doses of 2000 mg/kg, were found to be safe [121]; however, some reports suggest the potential toxicity of aqueous extract of P. incarnata in mice at a dose of 900 mg/kg body weight [121]. The median lethal dose (LD50) for 30% ethanolic extracts taken orally is reported as 37 mL/kg, and, for ethanolic extracts, it is 15 mg/kg. [122]. There is no evidence of genotoxicity in the literature; however, caution is advised for nursing mothers and children when consuming P. incarnata extracts, and this should be carried out under medical supervision. P. incarnata extracts have been shown to stimulate uterine contractions in animal models [121], so safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. The concomitant administration of P. incarnata extracts and sedatives, such as benzodiazepines, zolpidem, or alcohol, is not advisable, as pharmacokinetic interactions may occur [123].

5.2. Synergic Effects

The absence of proven toxicity allows for the development of nutritional supplements with Passiflora without negative health effects. Researchers are exploring synergistic effects between Passiflora and other herbal medicinal plants, as well as possible antagonistic interactions between isolated substances and those contained in Passiflora extracts. Combining Passiflora plant extracts with antibiotics has been found to alter natural antimicrobial resistance, potentially enhancing antibiotic activity. A supplement containing Passiflora extract in combination with an antibiotic was reported to increase the antibiotic’s activity [124,125]. In a comparison between standardized extracts of kava kava, Passiflora, and their combination, the sedative and hypnotic effects were 50% higher for the combination compared to the effects of the individual extracts used separately [126]. Passiflora extract, in combination with Hypericum extract with low hyperforin content, demonstrated similar efficacy in treating mild depressive states as mono preparations with high hyperforin content [127]. Fiebich et al. demonstrated the synergistic effects of Passiflora extract when administered in combination with a Hypericum extract using antidepressant pharmacological models. Passiflora significantly enhanced the pharmacological potency of Hypericum. The antidepressant effect of Hypericum and Passiflora extract at specified doses was more potent than that of Hypericum extract alone or imipramine [128]. The synergistic effect of Passiflora and Hypericum on serotonin reuptake can be explained by the altered coupling of phosphorus in the transport molecule of the extracts and inhibition of protein kinases or phosphatases, or by the alteration of protein–protein interactions due to conformational changes of the extract molecule after binding to other molecules [129]. A similar effect has been reported when two antidepressants, escitalopram and R-citalopram, bind to the serotonin transporter [130].

6. Patented Products Containing Passiflora, Different from the Widely Available Nutritional Supplements Containing Passiflora Extracts

Several patented products involving Passiflora have been developed:
  • Aromatic capsules with chitosan and P. edulis peel extract were designed to reduce lipid and carbohydrate absorption, making them suitable for use in overweight individuals [131].
  • A dermatological complex against wrinkles and skin aging was developed, which includes extracts from Papaver, Metha, and Myrtus, as well as seeds of P. edulis, P. incarnata, and P. laurifolia L. The product was tested on 18 patients with dry skin and resulted in a 41% increase in skin moisture compared to the use of the same dermatological complex without the plant extracts [132].
  • An antidepressant product containing L-glycine, L-methylfolate, magnesium L-threonate, and P. incarnata extract was patented. This product was shown to increase the swimming and climbing times of mice in antidepressant models compared to those of controls [133].
  • A product designed to improve the condition of migraine patients was patented, involving a liquid extract of P. incarnata obtained in water–ethanol mixtures with an ethanol concentration of 30–70%. After three weeks of intake, most patients reported a reduction in the frequency, strength, and duration of migraine attacks [134]. According to Lorente et al., the general condition of patients improved by over 89% [135].
  • Pharmaceutical formulations with antiulcer activity were developed, utilizing gelatin nanoparticles with P. alata dry leaf and stem extract (2–5%) in addition to gelatin (95–98%) [135].
Information on some of the main effects and recommended daily doses are presented in Table 5.

7. Conclusions

Passiflora is used most often in the food industry; it contains high levels of essential elements, essential amino acids, saccharides, and vitamins, and has a high potential for applications in various nutritional supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. All parts of Passiflora (fruit, leaves, and stems) contain the listed substances and biologically active components. Over the years, much scientific evidence has been accumulated and several clinical studies have been conducted that support the use of Passiflora in various aspects affecting human health. Possible toxic and synergistic effects have been evaluated, and attention has been paid to its application. The use of Passiflora is expanding with the development of cosmetic preparations, and in recent years various products containing Passiflora have even been patented.

Author Contributions

K.N. designed and conceived the project. M.V. and L.M.—initial draft preparation. A.G. (Anelia Gerasimova), N.H., P.S. and A.G. (Anna Gavrilova)—visualization and data curation. D.B.—project administration. K.N., G.G. and N.P.—writing and editing. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This study is financed by the European Union-Next GenerationEU, through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan of the Republic of Bulgaria, project № BG-RRP-2.004-0009-C02.

Data Availability Statement

Datasets from the time of this study are available from the respective authors upon reasonable request.

Acknowledgments

Special thanks to the European Union for the financial support provided for the publication of the paper and of project № BG-RRP-2.004-0009-C02.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

References

  1. Knight, R.J.; Winters, H.F. Pollination and fruit set of yellow passion fruit in southern Florida. Fla. State Hort. Soc. Proc. 1962, 75, 412–418. [Google Scholar]
  2. Ayala-Zavala, J.F.; Vega-Vega, V.; Rosas-Domínguez, C.; Palafox-Carlos, H.; Villa-Rodriguez, J.A.; Siddiqui, W.; Dávila-Aviña, J.E.; González-Aguilar, G.A. Agro-industrial potential of exotic fruit byproducts as a source of food additives. Food Res. Int. 2011, 44, 1866–1874. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  3. Hamdi, A.; Jaramillo-Carmona, S.; Rodríguez-Arcos, R.; Jiménez-Araujo, A.; Guillén-Bejarano, R. Asparagus. In Nutritional Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Fruits and Vegetables; Academic Press, Faculty of Sciences and Health, Technological University: Dublin, Ireland, 2020; pp. 581–585. [Google Scholar]
  4. Thokchom, R.; Mandal, G. Production Preference and Importance of Passion Fruit (Passiflora Edulis): A Review. J. Agric. Eng. Food Technol. 2017, 4, 27–30. [Google Scholar]
  5. Kishore, K.K.; Pathak, A.; Yadav, D.S.; Bujarbaruah, K.M.; Shukla, R. Passion Fruit; Tech Bull: Maharashtra, India, 2006; pp. 2–4. [Google Scholar]
  6. Pereira, M.G.; Maciel, M.G.; Haminiuk, G.M.; Hamerski, C.W.I.; Bach, F.; Hamerski, F.; de Paula Scheer, A.; Corazza, M.L. Effect of extraction process on composition, antioxidant and antibacterial activity of oil from Yellow Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis Var. Flavicarpa) Seeds. Waste Biomass Valorizati 2019, 10, 2611–2625. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  7. Holanda, D.K.R.; Wurlitzer, N.J.; Dionisio, A.P.; Campos, A.R.; Moreira, R.A.; de Sousa, P.H.M.; de Brito, E.S.; Ribeiro, P.R.V.; Iunes, M.F.; Costa, A.M. Garlic passion fruit (Passiflora tenuifila Killip): Assessment of eventual acute toxicity, anxiolytic, sedative, and anticonvulsant effects using in vivo assays. Food Res. Int. 2020, 128, 108813. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  8. Kim, M.; Lim, H.-S.; Lee, H.-H.; Kim, T.-H. Role Identification of PassifloraIncarnata Linnaeus: A mini review. J. Menopausal Med. 2017, 23, 156–160. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  9. Miroddi, M.; Calapai, G.; Navarra, M.; Minciullo, P.L.; Gangemi, S. Passiflora incarnata L.: Ethnopharmacology, clinical application, safety and evaluation of clinical trials. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2013, 150, 791–804. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  10. Ichimura, T.; Yamanaka, A.; Ichiba, T.; Toyokawa, T.; Kamada, Y.; Tamamura, T.; Maruyama, S. Antihypertensive effect of an extract of Passiflora edulis rind in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Biosci. Biotechnol. Biochem. 2006, 70, 718–721. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  11. Panelli, M.F.; Pierine, D.T.; de Souza, S.L.; Ferron, A.J.T.; Garcia, J.L.; Santos, K.C.D.; Corrêa, C.R. Bark of Passiflora edulis treatment stimulates antioxidant capacity and reduces dyslipidemia and body fat in db/db mice. Antioxidants 2018, 7, 120. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  12. Dzotam, J.K.; Touani, F.K.; Kuete, V. Antibacterial and antibiotic-modifying activities of three food plants (Xanthosoma mafaffa Lam., Moringa oleifera (L.) Schott and Passiflora edulis Sims) against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria. BMC Complement. Altern. Med. 2016, 16, 9. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  13. Zhang, Y.J.; Zhou, T.; Wang, F.; Zhou, Y.; Li, Y.; Zhang, J.J.; Zheng, J.; Xu, D.P.; Li, H.B. The Effects of Syzygiumsamarangense, Passiflora edulis and Solanum muricatum on Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17, 1616. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  14. Lima, N.L.M.; Cunha, E.C.T.; Nascimento, A.R.A. Passiflora species used in folk medicine: Pharmacological, chemical and biological aspects. Rev. Bras. Farmacogn. 2015, 25, 670–678. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  15. Yuan, T.Z.; Kao, C.L.; Li, W.J.; Li, H.T.; Chen, C.Y. Chemical constituents of leaves of Passiflora edulis. Chem. Nat. Compd. 2017, 53, 1165–1166. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  16. Hu, Y.; Jiao, L.; Jiang, M.H.; Yin, S.; Dong, P.; Zhao, Z.M.; Yang, D.P.; Ho, P.T.; Wang, D.M. A new C-glycosyl flavone and a new neolignan glycoside from Passiflora edulis Sims peel. Nat. Prod. Res. 2018, 32, 2312–2318. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  17. Figueiredo, C.S.; Albuquerque, M.M.; Ferreira, A.C.V.; Pinto, G.G. Passiflora species used in food industry: A review of the principal components and its functional properties. Food Res. Int. 2015, 73, 143–149. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  18. Kaikade, A.R.; Gurunani, S.G.; Pandel, T.W.; Sherekar, S.A.; Kaikade, P.R.; Mehare, S.R.; Gunjarkar, S.B.; Parate, M.W.; Jaiswal, S.V.; Dhawale, Y.V.; et al. Phyto-Pharmacognostic review on Passiflora Species. J. Med. Plants Stud. 2023, 11, 35–50. [Google Scholar]
  19. Lesschaeve, I.; Noble, A.C. Polyphenols: Factors influencing their sensory properties and their effects on food and beverage preferences. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 2005, 81, 330S–335S. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  20. Wen, L.J.; Mao, H.J.; Zhang, Y.C.; Li, Y.J. Compositions and antioxidant activity of Passifloraedulis rind. Food Sci. 2008, 29, 54–58. [Google Scholar]
  21. Konta, E.M.; Almeida, M.R.; Amaral, C.L.; Darin, J.D.C.; de Rosso, V.V.; Mercadante, A.Z.; Antunes, L.M.G. Evaluation of the Antihypertensive Properties of Yellow Passion Fruit Pulp (Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa Deg.) in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats. Phytother. Res. 2014, 28, 28–32. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  22. Hettiarachchi, H.A.C.O.; Chiranthika, N.N.G.; Janarny, G.; Gunathilake, K.D.P.P. Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis). Handb. Phytonutrients Indig. Fruits Veg. 2022, 16, 238–250. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  23. Santosa, T.B.; de Araujo, F.P.; Neto, A.F.; de Freitas, S.T.; Araújo, J.S.; Vilar, S.B.O.; Araújo, A.J.B.; Lima, M.S. Phytochemical Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of the Pulp of Two Brazilian Passion Fruit Species: Passiflora cincinnata Mast. and Passiflora edulis Sims. Int. J. Fruit Sci. 2021, 21, 255–269. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  24. Teles, R.B.A.; Diniz, T.C.; Pinto, T.C.C.; Júnior, R.G.O.; Silva, M.G.; de Lavor, É.M.; Fernandes, A.W.C.; de Oliveira, A.P.; Ribeiro, F.P.R.A.; da Silva, A.A.M.; et al. Flavonoids as Therapeutic Agents in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Evidences. Oxidative Med. Cell. Longev. 2018, 21, 7043213. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  25. Dhawan, K.; Kumar, R.; Kumar, S.; Sharma, A. Correct Identification of Passiflora incarnata Linn., a Promising Herbal Anxiolytic and Sedative. J. Med. Food 2004, 4, 137–144. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  26. Brodowska, K.M. Natural flavonoids: Classification, potential role, and application of flavonoid analogues. Eur. J. Biol. Res. 2017, 7, 108–123. [Google Scholar]
  27. Zuo, A.R.; Dong, H.H.; Yu, Y.Y.; Shu, Q.L.; Zheng, L.X.; Yu, X.Y.; Cao, S.W. The antityrosinase and antioxidant activities of flavonoids dominated by the number and location of phenolic hydroxyl groups. Chin. Med. 2018, 13, 1–12. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  28. Carmona-Hernández, J.C.; Taborda-Ocampo, G.; Valdez, J.C.; Bolling, B.W.; González-Correa, C.H. Polyphenol extracts from three Colombian passifloras (passion fruits) prevent inflammation-induced barrier dysfunction of caco-2 cells. Molecules 2019, 24, 4614. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  29. Shi, M.; Ali, M.M.; He, Y.; Ma, S.; Rizwan, H.M.; Yang, Q.; Li, B.; Lin, Z.; Chen, F. Flavonoids Accumulation in Fruit Peel and Expression Profiling of Related Genes in Purple (Passiflora edulis f. edulis) and Yellow (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) Passion Fruits. Plants 2021, 10, 2240. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  30. Kumazawa, T.; Kimura, T.; Matsuba, S.; Sato, S.; Onodera, J.I. Synthesis of 8-C-glucosylflavones. Carbohydr. Res. 2001, 334, 183–193. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  31. Choo, C.Y.; Sulong, N.Y.; Mana, F.; Wong, T.W. Vitexin and isovitexin from the Leaves of Ficus deltoidea with in vivo a-glucosidase inhibition. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2012, 142, 776–781. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  32. Rotta, E.M.; Rodrigues, C.A.; Jardim, I.C.S.F.; Maldaner, L.; Visentainer, J.V. Determination of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Passion Fruit Pulp (Passiflora Spp.) Using a Modified QuEChERS Method and UHPLC-MS/MS. LWT 2019, 100, 397–403. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  33. Zeraik, M.L.; Yariwake, J.H. Quantification of Isoorientin and Total Flavonoids in Passiflora edulis Fruit Pulp by HPLC-UV/DAD. Microchem. J. 2010, 96, 86–91. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  34. Cazarin, C.B.B.; Rodriguez-Nogales, A.; Algieri, F.; Utrilla, M.P.; Rodríguez-Cabezas, M.E.; Garrido-Mesa, J.; Guerra-Hernández, E.; de Campos Braga, P.A.; Reyes, F.G.R.; Maróstica, M.R.; et al. Intestinal Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Passiflora edulis Peel in the Dextran Sodium Sulphate Model of Mouse Colitis. J. Funct. Foods 2016, 26, 565–576. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  35. Giambanelli, E.; Gómez-Caravaca, A.M.; Ruiz-Torralba, A.; Guerra-Hernández, E.J.; Figueroa-Hurtado, J.G.; García-Villanova, B.; Verardo, V. New advances in the determination of free and bound phenolic compounds of Banana Passion Fruit Pulp (Passiflora tripartita, var. Mollissima (Kunth) LH Bailey) and their in vitro antioxidant and hypoglycemic capacities. Antioxidants 2020, 9, 628. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  36. Shanmugam, S.; Gomes, I.A.; Denadai, M.; dos Santos Lima, B.; de Souza Araújo, A.A.; Narain, N.; Thangaraj, P. UHPLC-QqQ-MS/MS identification, quantification of polyphenols from Passiflora subpeltata fruit pulp and determination of nutritional, antioxidant, α-amylase and α-glucosidase key enzymes inhibition properties. Food Res. Int. 2018, 108, 611–620. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  37. do Carmo Santos, J.T.; Petry, F.C.; de Castro Tobaruela, E.; Mercadante, A.Z.; Gloria, M.B.A.; Costa, A.M.; Lajolo, F.M.; Hassimotto, N.M.A. Brazilian native passion fruit (Passiflora tenuifila Killip) is a rich source of proanthocyanidins, carotenoids, and dietary fiber. Food Res. Int. 2021, 147, 110521. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  38. Viera, W.; Shinohara, T.; Samaniego, I.; Sanada, A.; Terada, N.; Ron, L.; Koshio, K. Phytochemical composition and antioxidant activity of Passiflora spp. germplasm grown in Ecuador. Plants 2022, 11, 328. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  39. Chiavaroli, A.; Di Simone, S.C.; Sinan, K.I.; Ciferri, M.C.; Angeles Flores, G.; Zengin, G.; Orlando, G. Pharmacological properties and chemical profiles of Passiflora foetida L. extracts: Novel insights for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Processes 2020, 8, 1034. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  40. Liu, S.; Yang, F.; Li, J.; Zhang, C.; Ji, H.; Hong, P. Physical and chemical analysis of Passiflora seeds and seed oil from China. Int. J. Food Sci. Nutr. 2008, 59, 706–715. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  41. della Cuna, F.S.R.; Giovannini, A.; Braglia, L.; Sottani, C.; Grignani, E.; Preda, S. Chemical Composition of the Essential Oils From Leaves and Flowers of Passiflora sexocellata and Passiflora trifasciata. Nat. Prod. Commun. 2021, 16, 1–7. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  42. Rizwana, H.; Al Otibi, F.; Al-Malki, N. Chemical composition, FTIR studies and antibacterial activity of Passiflora edulis f. edulis (Fruit). J. Pure Appl. Microbiol. 2019, 13, 2489–2498. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  43. Nunes, M.; Oliveira, L.F.S.; Fernandes, J.C.; Giacometti, R.L.C.; de Moura, E.G.P. Chemical composition and in vitro antioxidant activity of Passiflora alata and Passiflora cincinnata leaves. Ind. Crops Prod. 2018, 124, 97–105. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  44. Silva, S.C.M.; Barros, E.M.S.S.; de Souza, A.C.A.X.; Amorim, A.G.F.; Guedes, M.G.S.; Santos, A.C.F. Phytochemical characterization of the leaves and roots of Passiflora foetida L. Nat. Prod. Res. 2019, 33, 2107–2112. [Google Scholar]
  45. dos Santos, D.F.; dos Santos, F.A.H.; da Silva, T.R.; de Carvalho Melo Cavalcante, E.A.; de Souza, A.C.A.; Santos, A.C.F. Phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of the leaves of Passiflora nitida Kunth (Passifloraceae). Nat. Prod. Res. 2021, 35, 417–422. [Google Scholar]
  46. Ramos, L.; Pesamosca, E.; Salvador, M.; Hickmann, S.; de Oliveira, A. Antioxidant Potential and Physicochemical Characterization of Yellow, Purple and Orange Passion Fruit. J. Food Sci. Technol. 2018, 55, 2679–2691. [Google Scholar]
  47. Galvão-Novaes, K.; Da Silva-Romão, I.L.; Gomes-Santos, B.; Palhares-Ribeiro, J.; Almeida-Bezerra, M.; Galvão-Paranhos da Silva, E. Screening of Passiflora L. Mineral Content Using Principal Component Analysis and Kohonen Self-Organizing Maps. Food Chem. 2017, 233, 507–513. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  48. Kumssa, D.B.; Joy, E.J.M.; Broadley, M.R. Global Trends (1961–2017) in Dietary Potassium (K) Intake. Nutrients 2021, 13, 1369. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  49. Carvajal, L.; Turbay, S.; Álvarez, L.; Rodríguez, A.; Alvarez, M.; Bonilla, K.; Restrepo, S.; Parra, M. Functional and Nutritional Properties of Six Species of Passiflora (Passifloraceae) from the Department of Huila. Colomb. Caldasia 2014, 36, 1–15. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  50. Bueno, R.C.; de Souza, A.C.A.X.; Amorim, A.G.F.; Guedes, M.G.S.; Santos, A.C.F. Phytochemical characterization and antioxidant activity of the fruit of Passiflora cincinnata Mast. Nat. Prod. Res. 2016, 30, 943–947. [Google Scholar]
  51. Martins, C.C.V.; Bueno, R.C.; de Souza, A.C.A.X.; Amorim, A.G.F.; Guedes, M.G.S.; Santos, A.C.F. Phytochemical characterization and antioxidant activity of the fruit of Passiflora tenuifila Killip. Nat. Prod. Res. 2017, 31, 240–244. [Google Scholar]
  52. Ferreira, S.F.; Moreira, J.C.F.; Ribeiro, M.P.; Pinto, V.E.F.; Aquino, S.M. Phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and antioxidant activity in three Passiflora species. Food Sci. Technol. (Camp.) 2017, 37, 271–276. [Google Scholar]
  53. Aguiar, C.A.; Neves, G.F.; Morais-Braga, R.M.; Vieira Filho, R.F.F.; Moreira, G.L.R.; Vieira, I.C. Antioxidant and antibacterial activity of Passiflora fruit extracts. Braz. J. Biol. 2019, 79, 686–692. [Google Scholar]
  54. Soares, R.J.; Vasconcelos, E.R.; Carvalho, L.S.S.; Coelho, M.E.S.R.; Aquino, S.M. Phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in Passiflora edulis Sims fruits at different maturity stages. Food Chem. 2018, 263, 125–130. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  55. Lal, A. Iron in Health and Disease: An Update. P. edulis var. flavicarpa Degenerer contains twice as much iron (5.50 mg/100 g pulp) as Passiflora edulis Sims. Indian J. Pediatr. 2020, 87, 58–65. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  56. Da Silva, M.; Tadashi, E.; Grassi, H.; Briancon, R.; Mosca, J. Physical Characterization and Quantity of Nutrients in Sweet Passion Fruit. Rev. Bras. Frutic. 2001, 23, 690–694. [Google Scholar]
  57. Nedjimi, B. Can Trace Element Supplementations (Cu, Se, and Zn) Enhance Human Immunity against COVID-19 and Its New Variants. J. Basic Appl. Sci. 2021, 10, 33. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  58. Freitas, M.S.M.; Monnerat, P.H.; Vieira, I.J.C.; Carvalho, A.J.C. Flavonoids and mineral composition of leaves in yellow passion fruit plants as a function of leaves positions in the branch. Cienc. Rural 2007, 37, 1634–1639. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  59. Pertuzatti, P.B.; Sganzerla, M.; Jacques, A.C.; Barcia, M.T.; Zambiazi, R.C. Carotenoids, tocopherols and ascorbic acid content in yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) grown under different cultivation systems, LWT. Food Sci. Technol. 2015, 64, 259–263. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  60. USDA Food Composition Databases. 2019. Available online: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/ (accessed on 7 January 2024).
  61. Wang, C.; Xu, F.Q.; Shang, J.H.; Xiao, H.; Fan, W.W.; Dong, F.W.; Hu, J.M.; Zhou, J. Cycloar-tane triterpenoid saponins from water soluble of Passiflora edulis Sims and their antide-pressant-like effects. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2013, 148, 812–817. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  62. Vieira, L.Q.; Aguiar, J.A.M.; Santana, A.L.A.; de Souza, A.C.A.X.; Amorim, A.G.F.; Guedes, M.G.S.; Santos, A.C.F. Amino acid composition and nutritional properties of the pulp of three yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims) varieties. Food Chem. 2019, 276, 584–589. [Google Scholar]
  63. Souza, J.R.; Sousa, L.F.; Araújo, F.F.A.; Aragão, F.A.S.; Amorim, A.G.F.; Guedes, M.G.S.; Santos, A.C.F. Free amino acids and peptides in the pulp of three Passiflora species. Food Sci. Technol. (Camp.) 2018, 38, 261–267. [Google Scholar]
  64. Li, S.P.; Wang, Y.W.; Qi, S.L.; Zhang, Y.P.; Deng, G.; Ding, W.Z.; Ma, C.; Lin, Q.-Y.; Guan, H.-D.; Liu, W.; et al. Analogous b-carboline alkaloids harmaline and harmine ameliorate scopolamine-induced cognition dysfunction by attenuating acetylcholinesterase activity, oxidative stress, and inflammation in mice. Front. Pharmacol. 2018, 9, 346. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  65. Liu, C.Y.; Yin, C.M.; Huang, Y.C.; Geng, F.; Yang, F.; Huang, C.D. Progress in extraction, separation and purification, structural characteristics and bioactivities of polysaccharides of Passiflora edulis peel. Sci. Technol. Food Ind. 2018, 39, 335–351. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  66. Sema, A.; Maiti, C.S. Status & Prospects of Passion Fruit Industry in Northeast India; Central Institute of Horticulture: Medziphema, Nagaland, India, 2006; pp. 70–73. [Google Scholar]
  67. Domínguez-Rodríguez, G.; García, M.C.; Plaza, M.; Marina, M.L. Revalorization of Passiflora species peels as a sustainable source of antioxidant phenolic compounds. Sci. Total Environ. 2019, 696, 134030. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  68. Yepes, A.; Ochoa-Bautista, D.; Murillo-Arango, W.; Quintero-Saumeth, J.; Bravo, K.; Osorio, E. Purple passion fruit seeds (Passiflora edulis f. Edulis Sims) as a promising source of skin anti-aging agents: Enzymatic, antioxidant and multi-level computational studies. Arab. J. Chem. 2021, 14, 102905. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  69. Jusuf, N.K.; Putra, I.B.; Dewi, N.K. Antibacterial Activity of Passion Fruit Purple Variant (Passiflora edulis Sims var. edulis) Seeds Extract Against Propionibacterium acnes. Clin. Cosmet. Investig. Dermatol. 2020, 13, 99–104. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  70. Nerdy, N.; Ritarwan, K. Hepatoprotective activity and nephroprotective activity of, peel extract from three varieties of the passion fruit (Passiflora sp.) in the albino rat. J. Med. Sci. 2019, 7, 536–542. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  71. Ghada, B.; Pereira, E.; Pinela, J.; Prieto, M.A.; Pereira, C.; Calhelha, R.C.; Stojković, D.; Soković, M.; Zaghdoudi, K.; Barros, L.; et al. Recovery of Anthocyanins from Passion Fruit Epicarp for Food Colorants: Extraction Process Optimization and Evaluation of Bioactive Properties. Molecules 2020, 25, 3203. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  72. Hu, M.; Du, J.; Du, L.; Luo, Q.; Xiong, J. Anti-fatigue activity of purified anthocyanins prepared from purple passion fruit (P. edulis Sim) epicarp in mice. J. Funct. Foods 2020, 65, 103725. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  73. Dhawan, K.; Dhawan, S.; Sharma, A. Passiflora: A review update. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2004, 94, 1–23. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  74. Rogers, J.P.; Chesney, E.; Oliver, D.; Pollak, T.A.; McGuire, P.; Fusar-Poli, P.; Zandi, M.S.; Lewis, G.; David, A.S. Psychiatric and neuropsychiatric presentations associated with severe coronavirus infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis with comparison to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lancet Psychiatry 2020, 7, 611–627. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  75. Bloomer, R.J.; MacDonnchadh, J.J.; Gunnels, T.A.; Schriefer, J.H.M. The influence of a passion flower extract on free testosterone in healthy men: A two part investigation involving younger and older men. Integr. Mol. Med. 2016, 10, 15761. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  76. Al-kuraishy, H.; Alwindy, S.; Al-Gareeb, A. Beneficial Neuro-Pharmacological Effect of Passionflower (Passiflora Incarnate L). Online J. Neurol. Brain Disord. 2020, 3, 285–289. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  77. Akhondzadeh, S.; Naghavi, H.R.; Vazirian, M.; Shayeganpour, A.; Rashidi, H.; Khani, M. Passionflower in the treatment of generalized anxiety: A pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial with oxazepam. J. Clin. Pharm. Ther. 2001, 26, 363–370. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  78. Azimaraghi, O.; Yousefshahi, F.; Khatavi, F.; Zamani, M.M.; Movafegh, A. Both Oral Passiflora Incarnata and Oxazepam Can Reduce Pre-Operative Anxiety in Ambulatory Surgery Patients: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Asian J. Pharm. Clin. Res. 2017, 10, 331–334. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  79. Aslanargun, P.; Cuvas, O.; Dikmen, B.; Aslan, E.; Yuksel, M.U. Passiflora Incarnata inneaus as an anxiolytic before spinal anesthesia. J. Anesth. 2012, 26, 39–44. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  80. Kaviani, N.; Tavakoli, M.; Tabanmehr, M.; Havaei, R. The efficacy of Passiflora Incarnata Linnaeus in reducing dental anxiety in patients undergoing periodontal treatment. J. Dent. (Shiraz) 2013, 14, 68–72. [Google Scholar]
  81. Ngan, A.; Conduit, R. A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora Incarnata (passionflower) herbal tea on subjective sleep quality. Phytother. Res. 2011, 25, 1153–1159. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  82. Appel, K.; Rose, T.; Fiebich, B.; Kammler, T.; Hoffmann, C.; Weiss, G. Modulation of the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system by Passiflora incarnata L. Phytother. Res. 2011, 25, 838–843. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  83. Ayres, A.S.F.S.J.; De Araújo, L.L.S.; Soares, T.C.; Costa, G.M.; Reginatto, F.H.; Ramos, F.A.; Castellanos, L.; Schenkel, E.P.; Soares-Rachetti, V.P.; Zucolotto, S.M.; et al. Comparative central effects of the aqueous leaf extract of two populations of Passiflora edulis. Braz. J. Pharm. 2015, 25, 499–505. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  84. Alves, J.S.F.; Silva, A.M.D.S.; da Silva, R.M.; Tiago, P.R.F.; de Carvalho, T.G.; de Araújo Júnior, R.F.; de Azevedo, E.P.; Lopes, N.P.; Ferreira, L.S.; Gavioli, E.C.; et al. In Vivo Antidepressant Effect of Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa into Cationic Nanoparticles: Improving Bioactivity and Safety. Pharmaceutics 2020, 12, 383. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  85. Ayres, A.S.F.S.J.; Santos, W.B.; Junqueira-Ayres, D.D.; Costa, G.M.; Ramos, F.A.; Castellanos, L.; Alves, J.S.F.; Asth, L.; de Medeiros, I.U.; Zucolotto, S.M.; et al. Monoaminergic neurotransmission is mediating the antidepressant-like effects of Passiflora edulis Sims fo. Edulis. Neurosci. Lett. 2017, 660, 79–85. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  86. Kandandapani, S.; Balaraman, A.K.; Ahamed, H.N. Extracts of passion fruit peel and seed of Passiflora edulis (Passifloraceae) attenuate oxidative stress in diabetic rats. Chin. J. Nat. Med. 2015, 13, 680–686. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  87. Pan, Z.H.; Ning, D.S.; Fu, Y.X.; Li, D.P.; Zou, Z.Q.; Xie, Y.C.; Yu, L.L.; Li, L.C. Preparative Isolation of Piceatannol Derivatives from Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis) Seeds by High-Speed Countercurrent Chromatography Combined with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography and Screening for α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities. J. Agric. Food Chem. 2020, 68, 1555–1562. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  88. Kitada, M.; Ogura, Y.; Maruki-Uchida, H.; Sai, M.; Suzuki, T.; Kanasaki, K.; Hara, Y.; Seto, H.; Kuroshima, Y.; Monno, I.; et al. The Effect of Piceatannol from Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis) Seeds on Metabolic Health in Humans. Nutrients 2017, 9, 1142. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  89. Marquesa, S.S.F.; Libonati, R.M.F.; Sabaa-Srur, A.; Oliveira, U.; Luo, R.; Shejwalkar, P.; Hara, K.; Dobbs, T.; Smith, R.E. Evaluation of the effects of passion fruit peel flour (Passiflora edulis fo. flavicarpa) on metabolic changes in HIV patients with lipodystrophy syndrome secondary to antiretroviral therapy. Rev. Brasil. Farmacogn. 2016, 26, 420–426. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  90. Garg, R.; Gupta, R.K.; Yadav, R.K.S. Hepatoprotective activity of Passiflora edulis Sims. leaves against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Asian Pac. J. Trop. Dis. 2014, 4, S939–S944. [Google Scholar]
  91. Munhoz, A.C.; Leal, C.Q.; Duarte, M.C.T.; Marques, M.C.A.; Facundo, V.A. Protective effect of Passiflora edulis peel flour in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Food Res. Int. 2018, 108, 40–47. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  92. Goss, M.J.; Nunes, M.L.O.; Machado, I.D.; Merlin, L.; Macedo, N.B.; Silva, A.M.O.; Bresolin, T.M.B.; Santin, J.R. Peel flour of Passiflora edulis Var. Flavicarpa supplementation prevents the insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis induced by low-fructose-diet in young rats. Biomed. Pharmacother. 2018, 102, 848–854. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  93. Mohanasundari, C.; Natarajan, D.; Srinivasan, K.; Umamaheswari, S.; Ramachandran, A. Antibacterial properties of Passiflora foetida L.–A common exotic medicinal plant. Afr. J. Biotechnol. 2007, 6, 2650–2653. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  94. Ribeiro, S.F.; Taveira, G.B.; Carvalho, A.O.; Dias, G.B.; Da Cunha, M.; Santa-Catarina, C.; Rodrigues, R.; Gomes, V.M. Antifungal and other biological activities of two 2S albumin-homologous proteins against Pathogenic Fungi. Protein J. 2012, 31, 59–67. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  95. Jagessar, R.C.; Hafeez, A.; Chichester, M.; Crepaul, Y. Antimicrobial activity of the ethanolic and aqueous extract of passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims), in the absence and presence of Zn (OAc)2.-H2O. World J. Pharm. Pharmaceut. Sci. 2017, 6, 230–246. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  96. Saravanan, S.; Arunachalam, K.; Parimelazhagan, T. Antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects of polyphenols from Passiflora subpeltata leaves a promising species of Passiflora. Ind. Crops Prod. 2014, 54, 272–280. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  97. Sasikala, V.; Saravanan, S.; Parimelazhagan, T. Analgesic and anti–inflammatory activities of Passiflora foetida L. Asian Pac. J. Trop. Med. 2011, 4, 600–603. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  98. Koriem, K.M.M. Importance of Herbapassiflorae in medicinal applications: Review on experimental and clinical pharmacology. Biointerface Res. Appl. Chem. 2021, 11, 12886–12900. [Google Scholar]
  99. Montanher, A.B.; Zucolotto, S.M.; Schenkel, E.P.; Frode, T.S. Evidence of anti-inflammatory effects of Passiflora edulis in an inflammation model. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2007, 109, 281–288. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  100. Cazarin, C.B.B.; da Silva, J.K.; Colomeu, T.C.; Batista, A.G.; Meletti, M.; Paschoal, J.J.R.; Bogusz, S.; Braga, P.A.G.; Reyes, F.; Augusto, F.; et al. Intake of Passiflora edulis leaf extract improves antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status in rats with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulphonic acid induced colitis. J. Funct. Foods 2015, 17, 575–586. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  101. Saravanan, S.; Iniyavan, M.; Bruno, S.L.; Adriano, A.S.A.; Narain, N.; Mairim, R.S.; Parimelazhagan, T. HPLC–DAD–MS identification of polyphenols from Passiflora leschenaultii and determination of their antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. Arab. J. Chem. 2016, 12, 760–771. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  102. Amaral, R.G.; Gomes, S.V.F.; Luciano, M.C.D.S.; Pessoa, C.D.Ó.; Andrade, L.N.; Severino, P.; Brandão, G.C.; Bomfim, L.M.; Soares, M.B.P.; Bezerra, D.P.; et al. Cytotoxic potential of 14 Passiflora species against cancer cells. J. Med. Plants Res. 2019, 13, 157–166. [Google Scholar]
  103. Aguillón, J.; Arango, S.S.; Uribe, D.F.; Loango, N. Citotoxyc and apoptotic activity of extracts from leaves and juice of Passiflora edulis. J. Liver Res. Disord. Ter. 2018, 4, 67–71. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  104. Mota, N.S.R.S.; Kviecinski, M.R.; Zeferino, R.C.; de Oliveira, D.A.; Bretanha, L.C.; Ferreira, S.R.S.; Micke, G.A.; Filho, D.W.; Pedrosa, R.C.; Ourique, F. In vivo antitumor activity of by-products of Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa Deg. Rich in medium and long chain fatty acids evaluated through oxidative stress markers, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction. Food Chem. Toxicol. 2018, 118, 557–565. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  105. Dantas, L.N.S.; de Oliveira, D.M.; de Oliveira, A.S.; Cunha, V.M.N.; Carvalho, F.A.A.; Costa, J.P.; de Sousa, D.P. Hypotensive and vasorelaxant effects of ethanolic extract from Passiflora edulis Sims leaves. J. Ethnopharmacol. 2017, 204, 127–132. [Google Scholar]
  106. Leslie, G.B. A pharmacometric evaluation of nine Bio-Strath herbal remedies. Medica 1978, 8, 3–19. [Google Scholar]
  107. Lewis, B.J.; Herrlinger, K.A.; Craig, T.A.; Mehring-Franklin, C.E.; DeFreitas, Z.; Hinojosa-Laborde, C. Antihypertensive effect of passion fruit peel extract and its major bioactive components following acute supplementation in spontaneously hypertensive rats. J. Nutr. Biochem. 2013, 24, 1359–1366. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  108. Zibadia, S.; Faridc, R.; Moriguchid, S.; Lue, Y.R.; Fooe, L.Y.; Tehranic, P.M. Oral administration of purple passion fruit peel extract attenuates blood pressure in female spontaneously hypertensive rats and humans. Nutr. Res. 2007, 27, 408–416. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  109. -Kinoshita, Y.; Kawakami, S.; Yanae, K.; Sano, S.; Uchida, H.; Inagaki, H.; Ito, T. Effect of long-term piceatannol treatment on eNOS levels in cultured endothelial cells. Bioc hem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 2013, 430, 1164–1168. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  110. Duarte, I.d.A.E.; Milenkovic, D.; Borges, T.K.d.S.; Rosa, A.J.d.M.; Morand, C.; Oliveira, L.d.L.d.; Costa, A.M. Acute Effects of the Consumption of Passiflora setacea Juice on Metabolic Risk Factors and Gene Expression Profile in Humans. Nutrients 2020, 12, 1104. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  111. Lourith, N.; Kanlayavattanakul, M. Antioxidant activities and phenolics of Passiflora edulis seed recovered from juice production residue. J. Oleo Sci. 2013, 62, 235–240. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  112. Leao, K.M.M.; Sampaio, K.L.; Pagani, A.A.C.; da Silva, M.A.A.P. Odor potency, aroma profile and volatiles composition of cold pressed oil from industrial passion fruit residues. Ind. Crops Prod. 2014, 58, 280–286. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  113. Matsui, Y.; Sugiyama, K.; Kamei, M.; Takahashi, T.; Suzuki, T.; Katagata, Y.; Ito, T. Extract of passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) seed containing high amounts of piceatannol inhibits melanogenesis and promotes collagen synthesis. J. Agric. Food Chem. 2010, 58, 11112–11118. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  114. Krambeck, K.; Santos, D.; Otero-Espinar, F.; Sousa Lobo, J.M.; Amaral, M.H. Lipid nanocarriers containing Passiflora edulis seeds oil intended for skin application. Colloids Surf. B Biointerfaces 2020, 193, 111057. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  115. Smith, G.W.; Chalmers, T.M.; Nuki, G. Vasculitis Associated with Herbal Preparation Containing Passijiora Extract. Rheumatology 1993, 32, 87–88. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  116. Giavina-Bianchi, P.F., Jr.; Castro, F.F.; Machado, M.L.; Duarte, A.J. Occupational respiratory allergicdisease induced by Passiflora alata and Rhamnus purshiana. Ann. Allergy Asthma Immunol. 1997, 79, 449–454. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  117. Gibbert, J.; Kreimendahl, F.; Lebert, J.; Rychlik, R.; Trompetter, I. Improvement of Stress Resistance and Quality of Life of Adults with Nervous Restlessness after Treatment with a Passion Flower Dry Extract. Complement. Med. Res. 2017, 24, 83–89. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  118. Gow, P.J.; Connelly, N.J.; Crowley, P.; Angus, P.W.; Hill, R.L. Fatal fulminant hepatic failure induced by a natural therapy containing kava. Med. J. Aust. 2003, 178, 442–443. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  119. Dhawan, K.; Kumar, S.; Sharma, A. Reversal of cannabinoids (delta 9-THC) by the benzoflavone moiety from methanol extract of Passiflora incarnata Linn in mice: A possible therapy for cannabinoid addiction. J. Pharm. Pharmacol. 2002, 54, 875–881. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  120. Dhawan, K.; Kumar, S.; Sharma, A. Nicotine reversal effects of the benzoflavone moiety from Passiflora incarnata Linn in mice. Addict. Biol. 2002, 7, 435–441. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  121. WHO. Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 3; World Health Organization Press: Geneva, Switzerland, 2007; pp. 257–267. ISBN 9789241547024.
  122. Cicero, A.F.G.; Colletti, A. Handbook of Nutraceuticals for Chemical Use; Springer: Cham, Switzerland, 2018; pp. 1–23. [Google Scholar]
  123. Machado, H.; Nagem, T.J.; Peters, V.M.; Fonseca, C.S.; Oliveira, T.T. Flavonoides e seupotencialterapeutico. Bol. Cent. Biol. Reprod. 2008, 27, 33–39. [Google Scholar]
  124. Coutinho, H.D.M.; Costa, J.G.M.; Lima, O.E.; Falcão-Silva, V.S.; Junior-Siqueira, J.P. In vitro interference of Momordica charantia in the resistance to aminoglycosides. Pharm. Biol. 2008, 47, 1056–1059. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  125. Capasso, A.; Sorrentino, L. Pharmacological studies on the sedative and hypnotic effect of Kava kava and Passiflora extracts combination. Phytomedicine 2005, 12, 39–45. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  126. Madabushi, R.; Frank, B.; Drewelow, B.; Derendorf, H.; Butterweck, V. Hyperforin in St. John’s wort drug interactions. Eur. J. Clin. Pharmacol. 2006, 62, 225–233. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  127. Fiebich, B.L.; Knörle, R.; Appel, K.; Kammler, T.; Weiss, G. Pharmacological studies in an herbal drug combination of St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) and passion flower (Passiflora incarnata): In vitro and in vivo evidence of synergy between Hypericum and Passiflora in antidepressant pharmacological models. Fitoterapia 2011, 82, 474–480. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  128. Jayanthi, L.D.; Ramamoorthy, S. Regulation of monoamine transporters: Influence of psychostimulants and therapeutic antidepressants. AAPS J. 2005, 7, 728–738. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  129. Zhong, H.; Hansen, K.B.; Boyle, N.J.; Han, K.; Muske, G.; Huang, X.; Egebjerg, J.; Sánchez, C. An allosteric binding site at the human serotonin transporter mediates the inhibition of escitalopram by R-citalopram: Kinetic binding studies with the ALI/VFL-SI/TT mutant. Neurosci. Lett. 2009, 462, 207–212. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  130. Yamauchi, R.H. Cápsulas com Aromatizante para Mémoire da Absorpción de Lipídes e Carbohidrados. BR Patent BRPI0800705-A2, 21 June 2011. [Google Scholar]
  131. Golz-Berner, K.; Zastrow, L.; Doucet, O. Productocosméticoantiarrugas. US Patent US20070134189, 14 June 2007. [Google Scholar]
  132. Yusubov, N. A Novel Combination Containing Passiflora, Glycine, Metylfolate and Magnesium Threonate and Production Method Thereof. TR Patent WO2020162859, 20 August 2020. [Google Scholar]
  133. Pereira Leal, A.E.B.; de Lavor, É.M.; de Menezes Barbosa, J.; de Moura Fontes Araújo, M.T.; Dos Santos Cerqueira Alves, C.; de Oliveira Júnior, R.G.; de Lima, Á.A.N.; da Silva Almeida, J.R.G. Pharmacological Activities of the Genus Passiflora (Passifloraceae): A Patent Review. Curr. Top. Med. Chem. 2022, 22, 2315–2328. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  134. Lorente, R.R.; Fernandez, O.S.L.; Sánches, G.M.; Jure, M.M. Pharmaceutical Composition Based on Plant Extracts for the Treatment and/or Prevention of Migraines. CU Patent WO2007048356A1, 1 May 2007. [Google Scholar]
  135. Bacchi, E.M.; Chacra, N.A.B.; Salazar, P.M.N. Nanopartícula. BR Patent BR102012021728-A2, 1 July 2014. [Google Scholar]
  136. Dantas, L.P.; de Oliveira-Ribeiro, A.; de Almeida-Souza, L.M.; Groppo, F.C. Effects of Passiflora incarnata and midazolam for control of anxiety in patients undergoing dental extraction. Med. Oral Patol. Oral Cir. Bucal. 2017, 22, 95–101. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  137. Rokhtabnak, F.; Ghodraty, M.R.; Kholdebarin, A.; Khatibi, A.; Alizadeh, S.S.S.; Koleini, Z.S.; Zamani, M.M.; Pournajafian, A. Comparing the Effect of Preoperative Administration of Melatonin and Passiflora incarnata on Postoperative Cognitive Disorders in Adult Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery. Anesth. Pain Med. 2016, 7, 41238. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  138. Movafegh, A.; Alizadeh, R.; Hajimohamadi, F.; Esfehani, F.; Nejatfar, M. Preoperative oral Passiflora incarnata reduces anxiety in ambulatory surgery patients: A double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Anesth. Analg. 2008, 106, 1728–1732. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  139. Akhondzadeh, S.; Mohammadi, M.R.; Momeni, F. Passiflora incarnata in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. Therapy 2005, 2, 609–614. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  140. Akhondzadeh, S.; Kashani, L.; Mobaseri, M.; Hosseini, S.H.; Nikzad, S.; Khani, M. Passionflower in the treatment of opiates withdrawal: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. J. Clin. Pharm. Ther. 2001, 26, 369–373. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Plants 13 00228 g001
Figure 1. Flowers and fruits of species of Passiflora.
Figure 1. Flowers and fruits of species of Passiflora.
Plants 13 00228 g001
Plants 13 00228 g002
Figure 2. Flavonoid content of Passiflora fruit and peel [28,29,30,31,32,33,34].
Figure 2. Flavonoid content of Passiflora fruit and peel [28,29,30,31,32,33,34].
Plants 13 00228 g002
Plants 13 00228 g003
Figure 3. Soluble and insoluble fibers in different parts of Passiflora species [61,62,63].
Figure 3. Soluble and insoluble fibers in different parts of Passiflora species [61,62,63].
Plants 13 00228 g003
Plants 13 00228 g004
Figure 4. Sugar content of the ripe fruits of some Passiflora species.
Figure 4. Sugar content of the ripe fruits of some Passiflora species.
Plants 13 00228 g004
Plants 13 00228 g005
Figure 5. Major nutrients in the fruits of some Passiflora species.
Figure 5. Major nutrients in the fruits of some Passiflora species.
Plants 13 00228 g005
Plants 13 00228 g006
Figure 6. Health benefits of Passiflora.
Figure 6. Health benefits of Passiflora.
Plants 13 00228 g006
Table 1. Distribution of plants and fruits description.
Table 1. Distribution of plants and fruits description.
Species Habitat/Distribution Characteristics of FruitsReferences
Passiflora edulis Sims (purple passion fruit)South America and Mexico Adapted for cultivation in ChinaThe fruit is round, purple, 4–7 cm in diameter, and 4–9 cm long, weighing about 35–45 g[4]
Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa O. Deg. (yellow passion fruit)A mutation of the purple variety or natural hybrid. Commonly found in Northeast or South India [5]The fruit is round, golden yellow, 4–7 cm in diameter, and 6–12 cm long, weighing about 60 g[4,5,6]
Passiflora quadrangularis L. (giant granadilla)The tropical regions of America and AsiaThe fruit is greenish-yellow, 15–20 cm long, and weighs about 600 g[4]
‘Kaveri’ Hybrid passion fruit (purple and yellow)A hybrid, developed in India by crossing purple and yellow passion fruitThe fruit is purple, weighing about 85–110 g[4]
Table 2. Chemical constituents of the Passiflora genus (some classes of metabolites).
Table 2. Chemical constituents of the Passiflora genus (some classes of metabolites).
Chemical CompoundSpeciesPart of the PlantReferences
Citric acidPassiflora mollissima L.H. BaileyFruit pulp[35]
Syringic acidPassiflora mollissima L.H. BaileyFruit pulp[35]
Caffeic acidPassiflora subpeltata OrtegaLeaves[36]
Caffeoylquinic acidPassiflora tenuifila KillipFruits[37]
Malic acidPassiflora edulis Sims, Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa O. Deg, Passiflora alata CurtisFruits[38]
Apigenin-C-hexoside-C-pentoside Passiflora foetida L.Aerial parts (as mixed)[39]
Vitexin (Apigenin-8-C-glucoside)Passiflora foetida L.Aerial parts (as mixed)[39]
Luteolin-C-hexoside-C-pentosidePassiflora foetida L.Aerial parts (as mixed)[39]
LuteolinPassiflora edulis Sims, Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa O. DegFruit peel
fruit		[29]
QuercetinPassiflora edulis Sims, Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa O. DegFruit peel
fruit		[29]
NaringeninPassiflora mollissima L.H. BaileyFruit pulp[35]
Trihydroxy(iso)flavanol-(epi)catechinPassiflora mollissima L.H. BaileyFruit pulp[35]
TyrosinePassiflora edulis Sims (cultivar ‘Tainung No. 1’)Seed[40]
ValinePassiflora edulis Sims (cultivar ‘Tainung No. 1’)Seed[40]
ProlinePassiflora edulis Sims (cultivar ‘Tainung No. 1’)Seed[40]
GlycinePassiflora edulis Sims (cultivar ‘Tainung No. 1’)Seed[40]
α-HumulenePassiflora sexocellata Schltdl., Passiflora trifasciata Lem.Leaves,
flowers		[41]
Pentadecanoic acidPassiflora sexocellata Schltdl.
Passiflora trifasciata Lem.		Leaves,
flowers		[41]
Methyl salicylatePassiflora trifasciata Lem.Leaves,
flowers		[41]
Benzyl alcoholPassiflora sexocellata Schltdl., Passiflora trifasciata Lem.Leaves,
flowers		[41]
Cyclooctasiloxane, HexadecamethylPassiflora edulis SimsFruit pulp[42]
Cyclononasiloxane, OctadecamethylPassiflora edulis SimsFruit pulp[42]
Table 3. Vitamin compositions of juices prepared from the fruits of P. edulis and P. edulis f. flavicarpa [60].
Table 3. Vitamin compositions of juices prepared from the fruits of P. edulis and P. edulis f. flavicarpa [60].
Type of Vitamin,
Units		Juice from
P. edulis f. flavicarpa		Juice from
P. edulis
Vitamin B6, mg0.060.05
Vitamin A RAE, μg4736
Vitamin A, IU943717
Vitamin E (alpha tocopherol), mg0.010.01
Vitamin K, μg0.40.4
Table 4. Chemical compositions in Passiflora and pharmacological effects.
Table 4. Chemical compositions in Passiflora and pharmacological effects.
Chemical FormulaEffectReference
Plants 13 00228 i001
Luteolin-3-glucoside		Antitumor[21]
Plants 13 00228 i002
Quercetin		Antiallergic, antitumor, antiviral, and neuroprotective[21,43,44,45]
Plants 13 00228 i003
Kaempferol		Antiallergic, antitumor, antiviral, and neuroprotective[21,43,44,45]
Plants 13 00228 i004
Luteolin		Antiallergic, antitumor, antiviral, and neuroprotective[43,44,45]
Plants 13 00228 i005
Apigenin		Antiallergic, antitumor, antiviral, and neuroprotective[21,43,44,45]
Plants 13 00228 i006
Vitamin B6		Antiviral, immunological, and neuroprotective[59]
Plants 13 00228 i007
Vitamin A		Antiviral, immunological, and neuroprotective[59]
Plants 13 00228 i008
Vitamin E		Antiviral, immunological, and neuroprotective[59]
Plants 13 00228 i009
Vitamin K		Antiviral, immunological[59]
Plants 13 00228 i010
Harmane		Anti-inflammatory, antitumor[59]
Plants 13 00228 i011
Harmine		Anti-inflammatory, antitumor[4]
Plants 13 00228 i012
N-trans-feruloyltyramine		Anti-inflammatory, antitumor[4]
Plants 13 00228 i013
Malic acids		Antioxidant[4]
Plants 13 00228 i014
Citric acids		Antioxidant[4]
Table 5. Main applications of Passiflora species in medicine.
Table 5. Main applications of Passiflora species in medicine.
Passiflora SpeciesAilmentDoseRef.
P. incarnataDental anxiety20 drops/day[80]
260 mg[136]
P. incarnataPreoperative anxiety1000 mg[137]
500 mg[138]
700 mg/5 mL[79]
P. incarnataAnxiety disorder45 drops/day[77]
P. incarnataSleep disorderinfusion (2 g in 250 mL)[81]
P. incarnataAttention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)0.04 mg/kg/day (twice daily)[139]
P. incarnataOpiate detoxification60 drops/day
+ 0.8 mg of clonidine		[140]
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Nikolova, K.; Velikova, M.; Gentscheva, G.; Gerasimova, A.; Slavov, P.; Harbaliev, N.; Makedonski, L.; Buhalova, D.; Petkova, N.; Gavrilova, A. Chemical Compositions, Pharmacological Properties and Medicinal Effects of Genus Passiflora L.: A Review. Plants 2024, 13, 228. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13020228

AMA Style

Nikolova K, Velikova M, Gentscheva G, Gerasimova A, Slavov P, Harbaliev N, Makedonski L, Buhalova D, Petkova N, Gavrilova A. Chemical Compositions, Pharmacological Properties and Medicinal Effects of Genus Passiflora L.: A Review. Plants. 2024; 13(2):228. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13020228

Chicago/Turabian Style

Nikolova, Krastena, Margarita Velikova, Galia Gentscheva, Anelia Gerasimova, Pavlo Slavov, Nikolay Harbaliev, Lubomir Makedonski, Dragomira Buhalova, Nadezhda Petkova, and Anna Gavrilova. 2024. "Chemical Compositions, Pharmacological Properties and Medicinal Effects of Genus Passiflora L.: A Review" Plants 13, no. 2: 228. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13020228

Note that from the first issue of 2016, this journal uses article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop