Passiflora edulis, commonly known as passion fruit is a vine species of passion flower native to southern Brazil through Paraguay and northern Argentina. It is cultivated commercially in tropical and subtropical areas for its sweet, seedy fruit.
Some health benefits of this fruit are:
1-Soothes respiratory conditions. A combination of various extracts from the purple passion fruit peel creates a mixture of bioflavonoids. This mixture has a sedative, expectorant, and soothing effect on the respiratory system.
2-Boost immunity. Passion fruit has a number of antioxidants (Vitamin C, carotene, cryptoxanthin), which help to enhance the body’s immunity.
3-Aids in digestion. Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet as it facilitates healthy digestion of food, and the regulation of bowel movements.
4-Reduces blood pressure. Potassium is a vital mineral in the human body for a number of reasons, one of which is its role as a vasodilator.
5-Anticancer potential. Antioxidants in passion fruit primarily get rid of free radicals, which are known for mutating the DNA of healthy cells into cancerous ones.
6-Rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A is connected to eye health benefits, such as night blindness, cataracts and macular degeneration. The antioxidant content helps in reducing wrinkles and encourages proper functioning of membranes throughout the body.
7-Improve circulation. When combined with potassium vasodilation properties, the high copper and iron content of passion fruit can really make an impact. Copper and iron are both necessary components of red blood cell (RBC) production. Once the RBC count increases and the vessels are dilated, then healthy, oxygenated blood can flow freely to areas of the body.
8-Bone health. With minerals such as copper, iron, phosphorus and magnesium, to play a basic role in creating additional bone matter, strengthening existing bone matter, and speeding up repair.
9-Reduces insomnia. One compound in passion fruit is a medicinal alkaloid, Harman, which functions as a sedative.
Caution.
Passion fruit is high in sugar, so people with diabetes should be careful not to eat it in excess.