Passiflora alata
Passiflora alata · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (2 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Passiflora alata is a botanical species recognized for its significant therapeutic potential, particularly through the use of its leaves. Research indicates that various preparations, including aqueous, hydroethanol, and spray-dried extracts, contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and isovitexin. These chemical constituents contribute to the plant's diverse pharmacological activities, most notably its anxiolytic and sedative effects. Furthermore, the plant demonstrates valuable medicinal properties as an antioxidant, analgesic, and antispasmodic. Consequently, Passiflora alata serves as a promising natural resource for managing conditions related to anxiety and physical discomfort.
- Synonyms
- Passiflora Alata Var. Acuminata · Passiflora Tetradena · 16 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Passifloraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf
Classification
Common Names
Passiflora alata is a versatile climbing vine known by a wide variety of regional names across different cultures. It is frequently referred to as the fragrant granadilla due to its delightful aroma. In certain areas, people simply call it maracuja-doce or maracujá-grande to highlight its sweet characteristics. Local dialects may also use the terms maracutão or pasionaria when identifying this striking plant. Regardless of the name used, this species remains a beloved member of the passionflower family.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Passiflora alata is a complex species that is recognized by several different botanical synonyms in scientific literature. It is frequently referred to by the names Granadilla alata and Granadilla mauritiana depending on the classification used. Researchers also categorize various forms of the plant through specific varieties such as Passiflora alata var. acuminata. Further distinctions are made within the species to include Passiflora alata var. brasiliana. Finally, the taxonomic identity of this plant can also be identified as Passiflora alata var. insignis.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Passiflora alata is a remarkable specimen that belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae. Within this biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant further finds its place in the diverse order Malpighiales. It is more specifically categorized under the family Passifloraceae. Finally, it is identified by its distinct genus, Passiflora.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Passifloraceae |
| Genus | Passiflora |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Passiflora alata exhibits a remarkably broad geographic range that spans several continents and diverse climates. In the African region, this species is established across the Western Indian Ocean, including the islands of Mauritius and Réunion. Its presence extends into Northern America, where it can be found throughout both the southeast and southwest regions of Mexico. Moving into the Southern Hemisphere, the plant also thrives within the northern reaches of Brazil. This widespread distribution highlights the incredible adaptability of the species across various global ecosystems.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Passiflora alata relies on an obligatory climbing habit to ascend toward the sunlight, making its structural support essential for survival.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Passiflora alata is a significant medicinal plant recognized for its potent pharmacological properties. It is widely utilized in the production of phytotherapeutic agents due to its documented anxiolytic activity. Furthermore, the aerial parts of this species serve as a primary ingredient in various commercialized sedatives. These therapeutic benefits are largely attributed to the presence of essential biomolecules, particularly flavonoids, within the plant material. Consequently, optimizing the production of these metabolites is crucial for enhancing the plant's medicinal efficacy and safety.
Compounds
Passiflora alata is a significant medicinal plant recognized in the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia for its use in treating anxiety, spasms, and insomnia. A key component of its therapeutic profile is the presence of flavonoids, which are essential biomolecules linked to its anxiolytic properties. Research indicates that the concentration of these flavonoids can be maximized through agricultural techniques such as inoculation with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and the use of vermicompost. However, scientific studies also highlight the importance of precise analytical methods to quantify these compounds and ensure the quality of derived phytomedicines. Furthermore, while the plant is widely used, recent evaluations regarding the genotoxicity of its extracts suggest that careful study is required to guarantee its safety for human consumption.
Conditions
Passiflora alata is widely recognized for its medicinal ability to treat anxiety. The plant also demonstrates significant potential in treating Acanthamoebiasis through its amoebicidal properties. Research indicates that its extracts provide effective analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, the species possesses notable antibacterial activity against various bacterial strains. These diverse therapeutic relationships highlight the extensive medicinal value of the plant.
Preparations
Passiflora alata is prepared as various medicinal extracts to be utilized in phytomedicines. These preparations include leaf extracts and hydroethanol extracts which have been studied for their anxiolytic activity. Research also evaluates the plant as an aqueous spray-dried extract (PA) to assess its toxicity and genotoxicity. Furthermore, the plant is prepared as aqueous extracts for comparative phytochemical and pharmacological analysis. Through these different preparation methods, the specific flavonoid profiles and safety of the species can be thoroughly investigated.
Parts used
Passiflora alata is a medicinal plant species widely recognized for its therapeutic applications in treating anxiety and serving as a sedative. The leaves of this plant are particularly significant, as they are utilized to produce hydroethanol extracts that exhibit notable anxiolytic activity. Researchers frequently analyze these leaves to determine their phytochemical profiles, focusing on the presence and concentration of various flavonoids. Advanced analytical techniques, such as UHPLC-IM-CID-MS, are employed to distinguish specific isomers within the complex chemical makeup of the leaf extracts. Ultimately, studying the leaf components of Passiflora alata is essential for ensuring the quality, authenticity, and safety of its derived phytomedicines.