- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe
- Traditions
- Western herbal medicine
Europe · Herb · № 312
Vinca minor
Herb · Europe
Lesser periwinkle
Vinca minor
Traditionally attributed effects: astringent, promotes circulation, improves blood flow to the brain.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Leaves, root.
Use in traditions
In the Middle Ages periwinkle was a plant of fidelity and death: wreaths were given to brides and to children who had died. The alkaloid vincamine was developed into vinpocetine, which was studied for memory complaints. The related Madagascar periwinkle yielded the cancer drugs vincristine and vinblastine.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Astringent, promotes circulation, improves blood flow to the brain.
Preparation and amount
Leaves, root.