Periwinkle
(Vinca major)
Also know as Greater periwinkle
Botanical Information
A trailing evergreen shrub with opposite dark green, glossy leaves and solitary light bluish-purple flowers with five joined petals. A member of the Dogbane family.
Working with Periwinkle
Part(s) Used
Herb
Herb Forms
Tincture, bulk herb.
Affects
Periwinkle is an astringent herb used particularly for excessive menstrual flow and as a douche for leukorrhea. This herb or the related Vinca minor is sometimes recommended for tension headaches because of its reported ability to bring more blood into the head. Vinca is also used to reduce blood sugar in people with mild non insulin-dependent diabetes.
Periwinkle is often blended with other herbs such as passion flower herb.
Periwinkle has a taste of BITTER, ACRID and a temperature of COOL.
Cautions
Do not use if you have low blood pressure or constipation. Do not exceed recommended dose; not for long-term use without the advice of an experienced herbalist.
