Passion flower, also called Maypop, Apricot Vine and Passion Vine,
is one of several hundred members of the
Passifloraceae family of tropical plants and vines. While most are
evergreen, this species is notable as one of the only deciduous
varieties that can survive a winter frost.
The plant produces a lemon-sized fruit called a maypop that reportedly
tastes like guava fruit. It is this fruit that lends Hawaiian Punch® its
unique tangy flavor.
The flowers, leaves and stems are harvested to make various hair and
skin care products, as well as teas and tonics. The powdered herb is
also commonly encapsulated as a dietary supplement. Among the
phytochemicals found in passion flower are harmine, harmaline, and
harmalol, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) collectively referred to
as the harmala alkaloids.
