Just going by the name, one could think that this herb has a reputation as an aphrodisiac, but the Passion here refers to the appearance of the flower, it reminded Christian settlers in North America of the events around the crucifixion, the Passion of Christ. The flower was thought to be a lesson into the events of the crucifixion. The three styles or spokes that protrude from the centre of the flower were thought representative of the nails for the cross, the five anthers on the stamens were reminiscent of the five wounds suffered by Christ. The dramatic, zig-zagging white and purple corona ring surrounding the centre of the flower, like a human iris appeared to be the image of the crown of thorns, whilst the tendrils which help the plant to sprawl out like a vine were reflected as the whip help by Christ’s tortures. The connotations go on, whatever the relevance of the Passion Flower, there is no denying it is a thing of dazzling beauty.

This highly decorative herb originates from central and southern United States, growing in the wild from Ohio in the north to Florida in the south, it was highly prized by Native Americans for its many uses, both external and internal. The plant grows well outside of the US too, where it can even be found growing over the limestone cottages of the West Country of England.

The tea has a soothing flavour that has been drunk by Europeans for over 300 years and is valued as a tea. The flavour of Passion Flower Tea is strongly botanical, it has no sweetness, but is neither bitter or astringent. Like all Aquasol teas it will mix easily into any liquid, hot or cold. This herb will mix particularly well into a warm spiced apple juice, providing a calming beverage before bed or after a hard days work.

Directions: Use a quarter to a half teaspoon of herb powder to a cup of water or any liquid (hot or cold) and stir. Once opened consume within 1 month