Summary

Chemical analysis of a passionfruit hybrid bred in 2007 as a potential rootstock for the passionfruit industry has shown a profile consistent with that of Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower) which is widely used in herbal medicine for its sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety relief) properties. The analysis was conducted at Southern Cross University’s Centre for Phytochemistry and Pharmacology. The hybrid is extremely vigorous and free of disease. Its vigor and potential yield of vegetative material makes it an attractive alternative to P.incarnata flower.
A more detailed analysis is required as a means of identifying any unknown compounds in the hybrid and to confirm its similarity to the analysis of P.incarnarta.
Approval is required from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to use the product in the therapeutic medicine industry.
This project proposal is to secure initial funding for six months to maintain the F1 hybrid plants in the trial site at Duranbah and recommence negotiations with SCU to develop a costing and protocols for further testing.
A full proposal will be submitted depending on negotiations and available funding through RIRDC.

Program

New and Emerging Plant Industries

Research Organisation

Peasley Horticultural Services

Objective Summary

1. To investigate the potential natural therapeutic properties of a unique passionfruit hybrid.
2. Maintain and secure the genetic material at the trial planting at Duranbah, NSW.
3. Develop a cooperative program with SCU Department of Natural and Complimentary Medicine to cost the detailed analysis required and develop time-frames for a full proposal.
4. Contact potential commercial partners to assess prospects for commercialization.