What to know about Vinca major (periwinkle) before using it medicinally

Vinca major, commonly known as periwinkle, is a herb rich in health-promoting properties that have been shown to improve circulation, boost energy levels, and even exhibit anti-inflammatory effects.

In the garden, Vinca major is a low-maintenance, evergreen perennial that thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade, making it a popular choice for groundcover and container gardens. From a botanical perspective, Vinca major is a member of the Apocynaceae family and contains a range of bioactive compounds, including iridoid glycosides and alkaloids.

Historically, the herb has been referenced in traditional medicine for centuries, with ancient Greeks and Romans using it to treat various ailments, and it remains a popular ingredient in herbal remedies today.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Vinca major.

What are the medicinal properties of Vinca major?

Vinca major helps with various health conditions, including cancer treatment, as a vasodilator, and as an antihypertensive. It is also used to treat glaucoma, epilepsy, and as a local anesthetic. Research has shown its efficacy in inhibiting cancer cell growth.

The active constituents of Vinca major include vinblastine, vincristine, and catharanthus alkaloids, which are responsible for its medicinal properties. These alkaloids have shown promise in cancer treatment, vasodilation, and as an antihypertensive agent. Their mechanism of action is through inhibiting microtubule formation in cancer cells.

The parts of the plant most used for medicinal purposes are the leaves and roots. The leaves contain the highest concentration of vinblastine and vincristine, while the roots have been shown to have similar alkaloid content. The leaves are often harvested and dried for medicinal use.

Possible side effects of Vinca major when used improperly include peripheral neuropathy, constipation, and vomiting. Overdosing or prolonged use can lead to these adverse effects, highlighting the importance of proper dosing and caution.

Precautions when using Vinca major medicinally include consulting a healthcare professional for proper guidance, monitoring blood pressure, and being cautious of potential interactions with other medications. Patients should also be aware of the risk of peripheral neuropathy and report any side effects promptly.

What are the horticulural aspects of Vinca major?

Vinca major grow best in full sun to partial shade, requiring 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It thrives in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, tolerating some drought but performing optimally with regular watering. Temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) support optimal growth.

When planting Vinca major, it's essential to choose a location with minimal wind, as it can be sensitive to strong gusts. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, adding organic matter like compost to improve drainage and fertility. Plant the periwinkle at the same depth as it was in the nursery, watering thoroughly after planting.

For optimal flowering, Vinca major requires regular fertilization, pruning, and deadheading. Harvest the flowers in the morning, after the dew has evaporated, to prevent water spots on the blooms. Pinch off the spent flowers, and trim back the plant to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming leggy.

Common pests affecting Vinca major include slugs, snails, and scale insects, while root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew are common diseases. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation or disease, and treat promptly with integrated pest management techniques or fungicides as necessary. Maintain good sanitation and hygiene to minimize the risk of infection.

What are the botanical aspects of Vinca major?

Vinca major is a flowering plant characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves and blue-purple flowers that bloom in the spring. Leaves are oppositely arranged, lanceolate, and 5-10 cm long, with entire margins. Stems are woody and twining.

Vinca major is a member of the Apocynaceae family and is classified as Vinca major L. (1753) in the APG III system. It is also known as Vinca major L. in some sources. The genus Vinca was established by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The species name "major" comes from the Latin word for "greater".

The variants of Vinca major include 'Alba', 'Argenteo-Variegata', 'Aurea', 'Dart's Blue', 'Major', 'Rosea', and 'Variegata'. These variants are selected for their leaf color, flower color, or growth habit. They are often used in landscaping and horticulture.

Vinca major is native to the Mediterranean region, the Atlantic coast of Europe, and western Asia. It has been naturalized in North America and has become an invasive species in some areas. It is commonly found in woodland edges, rocky areas, and along streams.

The life cycle of Vinca major involves a period of dormancy in winter, followed by new growth in the spring. The plant produces flowers in the spring, which are followed by fruit in the summer. The fruit is a pair of follicles that contain seeds. The seeds are dispersed by birds and small mammals.

What are the historical aspects of Vinca major?

Vinca major is a flowering plant with a long history of medicinal and ornamental use. In ancient civilizations, it was used to treat fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions. In traditional Chinese medicine, it was employed to balance the body's energy. The plant was also used in folk medicine to treat various ailments.

In Greek mythology, the periwinkle was associated with the goddess Aphrodite, who used its leaves to heal her lover, Adonis. The plant was also said to have been used by the gods to create a potion that granted eternal youth. The mythological references to the plant's healing properties and associations with the divine reflect its early reputation as a powerful medicinal agent.

In various cultures, the periwinkle has been imbued with symbolic meanings, including fertility, prosperity, and protection. In Christianity, it is often used as a symbol of the Virgin Mary's love and devotion. In Hinduism, the plant is associated with the goddess Lakshmi, who is revered as a patron of fertility and prosperity. The plant's symbolic meanings reflect its long history of use in ritual and ceremonial contexts.

The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates wrote about the use of periwinkle in his treatise "On the Nature of Man." The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder also described the plant's medicinal properties in his work "Naturalis Historia." In the Middle Ages, the periwinkle was mentioned in several herbal texts, including "The Herbal" by John Gerard. These historical texts demonstrate the plant's widespread use and reputation as a medicinal agent.

Archaeological findings have revealed the use of periwinkle in ancient burial contexts. In ancient Egypt, periwinkle seeds were placed in tombs to ensure the deceased person's safe passage into the afterlife. In ancient Greece, the plant was used in funeral rituals to honor the deceased. The use of periwinkle in burial contexts reflects its symbolic meanings and associations with the afterlife.