The great Greek physicians, pharmacologists, botanists, and authors Pedanius Dioscorides and Galen discussed the lesser periwinkle plant, to which pharmacological research has been dedicated with great interest over the past years. Nowadays, several pharmaceutical preparations for this plant are available.
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Healing Properties and Indications
The lesser periwinkle plant’s most active components are vincamine and indolic alkaloid, with remarkable vasodilating properties. It also contains tannins with an astringent action and up to 35 other alkaloids recently identified. The following are the plant’s uses:
- Cerebral circulatory insufficiency: Vincamin is a potent vasodilator of the cerebral arteries. It increases blood circulation in the brain tissues and improves the function of the central nervous system. It also has hypotensive properties. Vincamine is successfully applied for headaches, vertigo, ear buzzing (tinnitus), and other manifestations of cerebral circulatory insufficiency (lack of blood flow) due to arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure, or other reasons. It is an ideal plant to fight the disorders caused by aging.
Recently, it has been proven that vincamine crosses the hematoencephalic barrier and acts on the brain tissues, improving the oxygenation of the neurons. For these reasons, vincamine extracted from this plant is one of the most used pharmacological substances in treating insufficient cerebral blood flow. The whole plant possesses the same effects as vincamine, which are improved by other alkaloids and active components. - Migraines: The lesser periwinkle is also helpful against migraines. It helps to ease the painful crises and prevent them from recurring.
- Hemorrhages: The astringent and hemostatic effect of its tannins explains that the lesser periwinkle plant was used to stop hemoptysis (bronchial hemorrhage) that appeared with tuberculosis in ancient times. Its present use is only justified as a complement to specific anti-tuberculosis treatment. It is externally applied for bleeding wounds, hematomas, and bruises to reduce bleeding.
- Colitis and gastroenteritis: The lesser periwinkle plant can stop diarrhea.
- Diabetes: The alkaloids of the lesser periwinkle plant present a mild hypoglycemic effect by decreasing glucose in the blood and reducing glucosuria (the elimination of glucose in the urine). In the case of diabetes, it is used in combination with diet and other treatments.
- Galactofuge: It stops the production of milk in breastfeeding women. It is taken orally and applied in compresses on the breasts for inflammation or when a mother wishes to stop breastfeeding.
- General and digestive system strengthener.
Lesser Periwinkle Scientific Facts
- Other names: Early-flowering periwinkle, greater periwinkle.
- French: Pervenche, violette des morts.
- Spanish: Vincapervinca, hierba doncella.
- Environment: Common in central and southern Europe, it grows in wet forests, especially oak and beech bushes. The plant is farmed in North America for medicinal purposes.
- Description: Vivacious plant of the Apocynaceae family, with ground stems up to two meters long, evergreen, coriaceous leaves, pedunculated, violet-blue flowers, and a very sour flavor.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The leaves.
How to use Lesser Periwinkle
- Decoction with 30-50g of leaves per liter of water, boiling for two minutes. Drink three to five cups daily, sweetened if desired with honey (the liquid is very sour).
- Pharmaceutical preparations (capsules, syrups, etc.). Follow the recommended doses and indications for each case.
- Compresses on the skin or the breasts (to stop breastfeeding), with the same decoction described for internal use. Apply 1—15 minutes, twice or thrice daily. In the case of hemorrhages or bruises, apply cold; however, apply warm compresses to inflamed breasts.
Forget-me-Not Plant
The forget-me-not is a plant of a similar species to the lesser periwinkle. It is native to Madagascar, though it is farmed in America, where it has many names, depending on where it is cultivated. The plant is beginning to be used as an antimitotic (prevents the reproduction of cancer cells) in treating certain leukemias (the disease of Hodgkin and others) and sarcomas. Its use is still experimental.
Frequently Asked Question
Has lesser periwinkle been proven to have medicinal uses?
While lesser periwinkle holds a place in traditional medicine, it’s important to note that many conventional uses are not backed by strong scientific evidence. Some compounds derived from periwinkle, such as vinblastine and vincristine, are used in specific chemotherapy treatments, but consuming the plant is very different.
Can lesser periwinkle improve cognitive function?
There’s limited research suggesting potential cognitive benefits. Some studies hint at improved circulation in the brain, which might support memory and brain health, but more investigation is needed.
Is it helpful for wound healing?
Traditionally, periwinkle has been used in wound healing preparations. Some research indicates potential benefits from the plant’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Still, it’s not a substitute for proper medical care.
Can this plant manage diabetes?
There’s minimal and mixed evidence surrounding using lesser periwinkle for diabetes management. It’s crucial never to substitute any herb for prescribed diabetes medication.
Does the plant reduce blood pressure?
Some animal studies point to possible blood pressure-lowering effects. However, human studies are lacking, and self-treatment for high blood pressure is dangerous.
Can lesser periwinkle be used for infections?
It possesses some antimicrobial properties, but its effectiveness against specific human infections is not well-established. It should never replace prescribed antibiotics.
Can I safely consume lesser periwinkle in any form?
The safety of consuming lesser periwinkle depends on many factors, including the dosage, form of preparation, and individual health conditions. Some parts of the plant can be toxic if consumed in large quantities.
Does the plant interact with medications?
It can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and blood pressure medications. Always consult a doctor before combining herbs with existing treatments.
Where can I find reliable information about lesser periwinkle?
Reputable sources for further information include:
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (About Herbs)
Scientific journals and databases (PubMed, Google Scholar)
Is it essential to consult a doctor before using lesser periwinkle?
Absolutely! It’s crucial to consult a doctor before using lesser periwinkle, especially if you have any existing health conditions or are taking medication.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 244, 245. Print.
- PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- Google Scholar https://scholar.google.com/
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
Last update on 2024-04-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API