Periwinkle Herb, or rosy Periwinkle as it is commonly known, is an evergreen shrub native to Madagascar islands. Known as Good Night, Cat’s Vinca, Shameless Maria, and Sorcerer’s Violet, this was known as the Flower of Death in Italy as the plant and flower were highly toxic. It should be consumed in minimal amounts.
It has remained an integral part of ancient Indian meditation, Ayurveda, as a topical cure for various conditions like wasp stings. If you look at the ancient Chinese medication, you will see that this herb was a powerful solution for malaria and diabetes. The folk medicine of Jamaica and the Philippines also used this herb to heal diabetes.
Before we delve deep into this herb to know it in a better way, let us take a look at what makes this herb a potential natural remedy for various health issues.
Top 13 Must Know Health Benefits of Periwinkle
1. Helps in preventing and easing cancer
According to two scientists from Canada, who experimented with this herb, it can prevent and treat cancer. It contains alkaloids that helped lower the count of blood cells, thereby offering a cure for various types of cancers such as leukemia and Hodgkin disease.
2. Could help on curbing bleeding
Periwinkle is known for its potential to curb bleeding, thus enhancing the healing. The oil extracted from the leaves of Periwinkle could help in curing bleeding of the nose and gums. It could also be used to ease the bleeding hemorrhoids. Being a good styptic by nature, this herb is powerful enough to regulate excessive bleeding during menstruation and menopause.
3. Heals skin ailments
The extract of this plant can be applied topically to ease various skin ailments, including dermatitis, eczema, and acne. It can also be used as a powerful natural cure for wasp and bee stings.
4. Could help in treating diabetes
Periwinkle has been an integral part of ancient medications to lower blood sugar levels and keep diabetes under control. Periwinkle tea is still used across the globe widely to manage diabetes. But if you are already under diabetic medications, make sure you do not consume the tea in excess quantities as it could lead to hypoglycemia.
5. Cure for sore throat
Periwinkle tea can be used as a solution for healing sore and strep throat infections. Use the tea as a gargle for your throat infections. Do it twice or thrice a day, but make sure you are not overdoing it as it could be lethal.
6. Stimulates better circulation
People who have tried Periwinkle suggest that a concoction prepared from the leaves of this herb could improve the circulation of blood and oxygen, thereby improving your immunity and energy levels.
7. Cure for oral sores
Periwinkle has rich astringent properties that make it an excellent solution for canker sores. Use the periwinkle tea as a mouth rinse to ease the oral sores’ pain and inflammation and promote better healing.
8. Eases stress and anxiety
Periwinkle, both the variants, helps in improving the circulation and lowering the levels of blood pressure. Thus this herb could be used effectively as a cure for anxiety and stress.
9. Good for the eyes
While studies are yet to ascertain Periwinkle’s benefit, it is suggested that the anti-inflammatory properties of this herb could be used to heal eye inflammation.
10. Helps in keeping your heart safe
This herb contains an alkaloid, reserpine, which is well known for its ability to lower blood pressure levels. An excess level of blood pressure is dangerous for your heart. Thus, by maintaining blood pressure levels, it shields your heart from various fatal conditions, including stroke.
11. For better brain health
Periwinkle herb is known to be beneficial in improving the overall health of your brain. In this herb, the presence of vincamine, an alkaloid, is known to help heal various brain conditions, including memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease. It also improves the circulation to the brain and shields the brain’s cells from an early death.
12. Helps in treating various digestive system conditions
Periwinkle helps in effectively curing various digestive conditions, including diarrhea and gastritis.
13. Good for your kidney system
This herb is known to be beneficial for various renal system conditions such as cystitis and calcium buildup due to dialysis.
More About Periwinkle Herb
What makes Periwinkle so beneficial for humankind?
The herb contains more than 70 potent alkaloids, most of which are well-known for their medicinal properties. It includes the anti-cancerous vincristine and vinblastine as well as anti-hypertensive reserpine. It also helps in managing your blood sugar levels. Some of the other uses of this herb are to ease toothache, improve circulation, and prevent memory loss.
What is periwinkle herb good for?
According to those who have tried it, the herb could treat vertigo, tinnitus, headaches, edema, and vaginal discharge.
How to make periwinkle herb tea?
Dry cleaned periwinkle leaves under the sun thoroughly by spreading them on a clean plate or cotton cloth until it turns crisp. Add it to a mixer or blender, powder it smoothly and finely, and store it in an airtight container.
To make the tea:
- Boil 200 ml water.
- Add ½ a generous teaspoon of the tea and simmer’s power until the water reduces to 80%.
- Strain and use it as required. You can mix in a little honey if you are drinking it.
Side Effects and Precautions of Periwinkle Herb
| Concern | Details |
|---|---|
| Gastrointestinal Issues | May cause nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps when consumed in large amounts. [Source] |
| Neurological Effects | High doses can lead to dizziness, seizures, or nerve problems. [Source] |
| Pregnancy and Breastfeeding | Not recommended due to potential toxicity and risk of birth defects. [Source] |
| Blood Sugar Levels | May lower blood sugar; caution advised for individuals on antidiabetic medications. [Source] |
| Liver Function | Potential hepatotoxic effects; monitor liver enzymes during use. [Source] |
| Drug Interactions | Can interact with medications like lithium and blood pressure drugs. [Source] |
It is advisable to refrain from using this herb if you have low blood pressure or constipation. People with a history of liver, lung, or kidney diseases should also avoid this herb. Pregnant and lactating mothers, as well as children, are also exempted from consuming it.
Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional before adding new supplements or herbs, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on medication.
