← Botanical Garden Silimalombu
Made from this plant – available in our shop
Basic Information:
Passion fruit leaves are the leaves of the passion fruit vine (Passiflora edulis). They are small to medium in size, deeply lobed, and oblong in shape. Each leaf has 3-5 lobes, depending on the variety. The upper surface of the leaf is dark green, smooth, and glossy, while the underside is pale green and matte. The leaves have serrated, or toothed edges.
Passion fruit leaves are tender and have a mild green flavor. They can be used in both raw and cooked applications. In raw form, they can be sliced thinly and used as a leafy vegetable in salads or mixed into sambals and served over rice. They can also be added to soups, curries, stir-fries, pasta, and quiches.
Nutrition, Traditional Use and Research
The statements below describe nutrition facts, traditional use and published research. They are not health claims for our products.
- Passion fruit leaves are tender and edible. Dried leaves are well suited for a tea; to make it, boil the dried leaves for 5 minutes (see the safety note below). Fresh young leaves are traditionally also used in small amounts in salads, sambals, soups and stir-fries. In traditional practice, passion fruit leaf tea is drunk in the evening for relaxation.
- Passion fruit leaves are a source of vitamin A and vitamin C and contain fiber. Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system, and vitamin A to the maintenance of normal vision. The leaves also contain antioxidants in laboratory tests.
- Some studies have examined passion fruit leaf extract in animals, for example in relation to anxiety-like behavior in rats and brain messengers in mice. A few small studies have looked at sleep in people. The evidence is limited, and no health effect can be concluded from these studies.
- Important safety note: Passion fruit leaves naturally contain small amounts of compounds that can release cyanide. Dried leaves are well suited for tea, but they must always be boiled for 5 minutes before drinking. Do not use fresh leaves raw in larger amounts.
- If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, please ask a doctor before using passion fruit leaves.