Passiflora foetida Linn: A Phytochemically Active Weed

Abstract

Passiflora foetida commonly known as ‘Stinking passion flower’ is a medicinal plant, a member of the Passifloraceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States, central and southern America. From ancient times, it is a great source of medicine worldwide. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Leaves and roots decoction has proved to cure many ailments. The fruits of this plant can also serve as a best source of vitamins and minerals as it grows invasive, benefiting local people as a food source. It has shown many pharmacological activities such as analgesic, anti-diarrheal, anti-tussive, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, antidepressant, etc. It has also shown cytotoxic properties that can be used in cancer treatment. Its phytochemical activeness has proved a promising future to provide beneficial treatments to mankind. The biological characteristics of Passiflora foetida are taken in this review.