Periwinkle (Vinca minor)

Periwinkle (Vinca minor) is a member of the Apocynaceae family, native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. Traditionally, its leaves, roots, and stems have been used for infusions, decoctions, and poultices.

This herb is particularly valued for its sedative, antispasmodic, and tonic actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and traditional chinese medicine.

Periwinkle (Vinca minor) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Periwinkle (Vinca minor) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Periwinkle
Scientific Name	Vinca minor
Plant Family	Apocynaceae
Genus	Vinca
Species	minor
Native Range	Europe, Western Asia, North Africa
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Roots, Stems
Primary Medicinal Actions	Sedative, Antispasmodic, Tonic
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Decoction, Poultice

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Vinca minor
Common Name: Periwinkle
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Lesser Periwinkle, Vinca Minor, Baby Blue Eyes
Plant Family: Apocynaceae
Genus: Vinca

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 10 to 30 centimeters.
Leaves: Opposite, broad leaves with dark green upper surfaces and lighter green lower surfaces, featuring prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: Flowers are blue to violet in color, arranged in clusters, actinomorphic, with five petals and two lobes on the lower lip.
Stems: Elongated, erect, herbaceous stems with opposite branching, smooth surface, and nodes bearing adventitious roots.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Decoction
Poultice
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Sedative: Traditionally described as a mild sedative, in nervous system–related contexts.
Antispasmodic: In herbal texts, considered a cooling antispasmodic, for cramp-focused discussions.
Tonic: Historically regarded as a calming tonic, in general wellness contexts.
Anti-inflammatory: Commonly referenced as a gentle anti-inflammatory, in topical or internal use contexts.

Active Compounds

Alkaloid: Naturally occurring organic compounds commonly involved in plant defense.
Flavonoid: Plant-based polyphenolic compounds frequently distributed throughout aerial plant parts.
Glycoside: Naturally occurring metabolites distributed across many plant species.
Phenolic Acid: A class of aromatic plant compounds commonly found in leaves, seeds, and stems.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: Caution is advised in certain contexts based on traditional use and available information.
Contraindications: The use of this herb has been associated with reported contraindications in some situations.
Allergies: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb commonly causes allergic reactions.
Drug Interactions: Interactions with prescription medications have not been well documented.
Toxicity: Reports indicate that this herb may exhibit toxic properties in some contexts.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Infusions are commonly prepared using hot water to release aromatic and soluble components.
Decoction: Plant parts are gently boiled in water to release soluble constituents.
Poultice: A topical preparation made by applying softened plant material externally.
Tincture: Tinctures are liquid extracts produced through alcoholic maceration.
Extract: Extracts are created by dissolving plant material in a suitable non-alcoholic medium.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with moderately well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers moist soils. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.