A Scientific Update on Passiflora foetida

Abstract

Introduction: This review describes the importance of medicinal plant Passiflora foetida in the modern world. Between 190 countries, approximately 85% have dependency of traditional systems of Ayurveda, Homeopathy and Unani that have contributed for exploring remedial plants. Passiflora is a prominent medicinal plant with major phyto-constituents such as flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, phenolic and volatile constituents those are potent for potential therapeutic practice. Aim: This article focus, specifically on Passiflora foetida describing its distribution taxonomic, morphology, remedial uses, photo-constituents and clinical applications. Study Design: Comprehensive literature survey, including national and international journals for assembly of the pharmacological aspects of medicinal P. foetida has been done. Results: P. foetida extracts have potential tendency against anxiety, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, inflammation and cancer. They are rich in fiber content, used in paper production industries. In various, countries Passiflora fruits are farmed for making cold drink, ice cream, flavor thus best source for economic earning. Conclusion: Current review form package of pharmacological importance of P. foetida that will assist a researcher for identification of bioactive compounds.  Information regarding medicinal and phytochemical are discussed that would be beneficial in research design. This plant carries a large number of bioactive phyto-constituents that may be effectively raised for drug in pharmaceutical industry.