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Toxicity of Passiflora incarnata L.
A A Fisher1, P Purcell, D G Le Couteur
1The Canberra Hospital, Garran, Australia.
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|March 4, 2000
Summary
Herbal remedies like Passiflora incarnata can cause serious adverse effects, including cardiac issues. Healthcare providers should inquire about herbal product use in patients with unexplained symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Toxicology
- Integrative Medicine
Background:
- Herbal medicines are widely used but may possess unrecognized adverse effects.
- Assessing the safety profile of commonly used herbal remedies is crucial.
Observation:
- A case study details a 34-year-old female experiencing severe nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, prolonged QTc interval, and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia.
- These symptoms emerged after consuming Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) at recommended doses.
Findings:
- The patient required hospitalization for cardiac monitoring and IV fluids due to the adverse events.
- A significant association was established between Passiflora incarnata use and the patient's severe adverse effects.
Implications:
- Passiflora incarnata can be linked to significant adverse events, including cardiac arrhythmias.
- Clinicians must proactively question patients about herbal medicine consumption, especially when diagnosing undiagnosed conditions.
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