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

Vinca minor, commonly known as periwinkle, is a perennial herb that has been valued for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation.

As a popular ornamental plant, Vinca minor is prized for its dark green, glossy foliage and vibrant blue-purple flowers, which bloom in early spring and continue through summer. From a botanical standpoint, Vinca minor is a member of the Apocynaceae family and is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and twining stems.

The herb has been mentioned in ancient texts, including the writings of Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder, who noted its medicinal properties and its use in treating various ailments.

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

What are the medicinal properties of Vinca minor?

Vinca minor helps with a variety of health conditions due to its alkaloids, particularly vinblastine and vincristine, which have anti-cancer properties, as well as its antiviral and antibacterial properties.

The active constituents responsible for the medicinal properties of Vinca minor are vinblastine and vincristine, two alkaloids that inhibit microtubule formation, thereby stopping cell division and leading to apoptosis in cancer cells.

The parts of the plant most used for medicinal purposes are the leaves, stems, and roots, which are harvested at different times to extract the required alkaloids and other bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and saponins.

Possible side effects of Vinca minor include peripheral neuropathy, nausea, and vomiting, as well as bone marrow suppression and thrombocytopenia due to its inhibitory effects on microtubule formation and cell division.

When using Vinca minor medicinally, precautions include avoiding its use in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to its potential teratogenic and cytotoxic effects, as well as its use in combination with other antineoplastic agents to prevent synergistic toxicity.

What are the horticulural aspects of Vinca minor?

Vinca minor grow in USDA zones 4-8, requiring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It thrives in moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Average watering needs are 1-2 inches per week.

To plant Vinca minor successfully, dig a trench 6-8 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide. Add organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility. Space plants 12-18 inches apart and water thoroughly. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Vinca minor flowers and leaves can be harvested for medicinal purposes, but proper identification and preparation are crucial. Gather leaves and flowers in the morning after they have reached full color and fragrance. Dry or freeze them immediately to preserve potency and shelf life. Only use clean equipment and storage containers.

Common pests affecting Vinca minor include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Fungal diseases like leaf spot and root rot are also prevalent. Regular monitoring and pruning can prevent infestations, while fungicides may be necessary for severe disease outbreaks. Maintain good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent these issues.

What are the botanical aspects of Vinca minor?

Vinca minor is a flowering plant in the dogbane family, Apocynaceae. It has oval, pointed leaves, 3-6 cm long, dark green, shiny, and opposite on the stem. The stems are slender, twining, and can grow up to 30 cm in length.

Vinca minor is classified as Apocynaceae, in the order Gentianales, and is a member of the genus Vinca, which comprises about 6 species. The species name minor indicates its smaller size compared to other species in the genus.

The plant has several cultivars and variants, including 'Alba' (white flowers), 'Aurea' (golden leaves), 'Atropurpurea' (purple flowers), and 'Bowles' Variety' (compact growth habit). These variants exhibit distinct characteristics but retain the same basic structure as the wild species.

The plant is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa, and has been introduced to other regions as an ornamental plant. It has become naturalized in many areas, including the Pacific Northwest region of North America.

The life cycle of Vinca minor begins with seed germination, followed by seedling establishment and development of the taproot. The plant grows from a rosette into a stem with leaves and flowers, which eventually produce seed capsules that release seeds for the next generation.

What are the historical aspects of Vinca minor?

Vinca minor is a plant that has been used for medicinal purposes for over 1,000 years. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was used to treat various ailments, including fever, headache, and digestive issues. Its roots were used to make a tea that was believed to have antibacterial properties.

In some mythologies, Vinca minor is associated with the goddess of love, Venus. In Greek mythology, the periwinkle was said to be one of the flowers that bloomed in the gardens of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. This association may have contributed to the plant's use as a romantic gift in the Middle Ages.

In the Victorian era, Vinca minor was a popular symbol of friendship and loyalty. Its flowers were often used in bouquets and arrangements to express these sentiments. The plant's dark green leaves were also used to represent eternal life and fidelity.

Vinca minor has been mentioned in several historical texts, including the writings of the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder. In his book "Naturalis Historia", Pliny describes the plant's medicinal properties and its use in treating various ailments. The Greek physician Dioscorides also wrote about the plant's use in his book "De Materia Medica".

The use of Vinca minor can be seen in various historical artifacts, including ancient Greek and Roman pottery and textiles. In some of these artifacts, the plant's flowers and leaves are depicted in intricate designs, highlighting its significance in the cultures of the time. The plant's roots and leaves have also been found in archaeological excavations of ancient medical facilities.