Condition
Treatment Support
increase blood flow to brain
Application
tincture
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.
Christopher Hobbs:
“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 passionflower herb.
Periwinkle has a taste of BITTER, ACRID and a temperature of COOL.”
Historical Uses
Periwinkle, particularly Vinca minor and Vinca rosea, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. In folk medicine, it was used to treat conditions such as diarrhea, high blood pressure, and wounds. It was also employed for its mild sedative properties and to improve circulation.
Modern Clinical Uses
- Herbalists & Naturopaths: Herbalists use periwinkle primarily for its cognitive-enhancing effects, often to support memory and circulation, and for its potential to improve vascular health. It is also used in some herbal formulas aimed at treating anxiety or stress.
- Chemistry & Pharmacology: Periwinkle contains alkaloids like vincristine and vinblastine, which have potent anti-cancer properties. These compounds disrupt cell division, making them key in the treatment of cancers such as leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and breast cancer. Research into other compounds for cardiovascular, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects is ongoing.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials of periwinkle primarily focus on its alkaloid compounds like vincristine and vinblastine in cancer therapy. These have shown effectiveness in treating various cancers, including childhood leukemia, lymphoma, and testicular cancer. However, clinical trials also emphasize the importance of proper dosing and the risks of toxicity. There is less clinical evidence supporting the use of periwinkle for non-cancerous conditions, though studies on its potential neuroprotective effects (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease) are still ongoing.
In summary, periwinkle has both a deep historical and modern role in medicine, especially in oncology. However, it requires careful handling due to its toxicity in certain forms and dosages.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
While periwinkle alkaloids have proven medicinal value, they can be toxic in high doses. The plant can cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Pregnant women should avoid periwinkle due to potential teratogenic effects. Proper dosing is crucial to avoid adverse reactions. 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.
Dosages:
For herbal use: Typical doses vary widely depending on the form (e.g., tinctures, capsules). For example, a common dosage of dried Vinca minor may be 1-2 grams per day, but this is highly dependent on the specific preparation.
Pharmacological doses: For cancer treatment, vincristine and vinblastine are given intravenously under strict medical supervision.
Conditions treated with Periwinkle
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
vessel dilator
Application
tincture, tea
Condition
Treatment Support
astringent
Application
tea as a douche
Condition
Treatment Support
astringent
Application
tincture, tea
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
