The physiological action of passiflora has not been well-studied. Medicinal doses produce no special physiological impressions, but we have observed even small doses to occasionally provoke emesis, Some individuals appear to be very susceptible to this effect. Moderate doses act as an antispasmodic and are somewhat narcotic. Dr. Phares, who introduced the drug, stated that he was satisfied that it possessed no narcotic properties. It is, at least, hypnotic. Excessive doses are said to have produced in animals both spasms and paralysis.
The clinical application of passiflora has been with most observers satisfactory. Its force is exerted chiefly upon the nervous system, the remedy finding a wide application in spasmodic disorders and as a rest-producing agent. It is best adapted to debility and does not act so well in sthenic conditions, although not contraindicated in such. It is specially useful to allay restlessness and overcome wakefulness, when these are the result of exhaustion, or the nervous excitement of debility. It proves specially useful in the insomnia of infants and old people. It gives sleep to those who are laboring under the effects of mental worry or from mental overwork. It relieves the nervous symptoms due to reflex sexual or menstrual disturbances, and the nervous irritability resulting from prolonged illness. We have employed it with good results to allay the restlessness of typhoid fever, although its action appears to be slow, but sure. The sleep induced by passiflora is a peaceful, restful slumber, and the patient awakens quiet and refreshed. A further study of the drug will undoubtedly give us a better guide to its adaptation as a nerve sedative and hypnotic. An atonic condition appears to be the keynote to its selection.