Native to South America, this climbing shrub is widely cultivated throughout Europe. It takes its name from the Italian ‘fiore della passione’ referring to the flower’s resemblance to Christ’s crucifixion. The stamens are thought to represent the wounds of Christ. The filaments represent the crown of thorns and the petals the apostles. Passion flower was valued by Native Americans mainly for its ability to heal bruises and wounds. Later, herbal practitioners valued the plant for its calming, sedative and pain-relieving actions. It has been used over the years for anxiety, fatigue and insomnia. Passion flower features in two of our herbal remedies. 'Bonuit', in combination with valerian, (for sleep disturbance) and 'RelaxHerb' (for mild anxiety and stress).