By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
What Are The Medicinal Properties Of Vinca Rosea (Periwinkle)?
Vinca rosea, also known as periwinkle, has health benefits such as improving memory and cognitive function due to its alkaloid content.
The herb's medicinal constituents include vincamine, aniridine, and periwinkle alkaloids, which contribute to its therapeutic properties. Periwinkle is prepared as a tincture or dried extract and used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions. However, high doses may cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, and allergic reactions.
When using periwinkle, caution should be exercised, particularly in patients with bleeding disorders or pregnant women, as it may exacerbate bleeding conditions or harm the fetus.
This article explains the health benefits, active constituents, medicinal preparations, possible side effects, and precautions related to Vinca rosea .
What are the health benefits of Vinca rosea ?
Vinca rosea, also known as periwinkle, has health benefits such as lowering blood pressure and reducing inflammation due to its alkaloids, vinpocetine and catharanthine.
Studies have shown that vinpocetine improves blood flow to the brain, potentially preventing strokes and improving cognitive function.
Additionally, periwinkle extracts have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, making it effective against bacterial and fungal infections, as well as protecting against oxidative stress.
Here's a detailed article about the 10 health benefits of Vinca rosea .
What are the active constituents of Vinca rosea ?
Vinca rosea, also known as periwinkle, has active constituents such as vinblastine and vincristine, which are alkaloids responsible for its medicinal properties.
These compounds have been found to have antimitotic and anticancer activity, making them effective in treating certain types of leukemia and lymphomas.
Vinca rosea also contains other alkaloids like ajmalicine and catharanthine, which have been isolated and used in the treatment of hypertension and other cardiovascular disorders.
Here's a detailed article about the 10 active constituents of Vinca rosea .
What are the medicinal preparations of Vinca rosea ?
Vinca rosea, also known as periwinkle, has medicinal preparations such as vincristine and vinblastine used in chemotherapy to treat various types of cancer, including leukemia and lymphoma.
It is also used to treat Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and certain types of solid tumors.
Additionally, extracts of Vinca rosea are used in some traditional medicine practices to treat various health conditions, including hypertension and fever, although these uses are not universally recognized.
Here's a detailed article about the 10 medicinal preparations of Vinca rosea .
What are the possible side effect of using Vinca rosea improperly?
Improper use of Vinca rosea, also known as periwinkle, increases the chances of experiencing side effects such as dizziness, headaches, and nausea.
It may also cause fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function. Furthermore, long-term use can lead to damage to the bone marrow, liver, and kidney damage.
Additionally, excessive use can interact with other medications, such as blood thinners, leading to increased risk of bleeding.
Here's a detailed article about the 10 most common side effects of Vinca rosea .
What precautions to take when using Vinca rosea medicinally?
Before using Vinca rosea, also known as periwinkle, for medicinal purposes, you must take precautions such as wearing gloves when handling the plant to avoid skin irritation, and thoroughly washing any affected area afterward to minimize exposure.
Additionally, avoid ingesting large amounts of the plant, as its alkaloids can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and other systemic symptoms.
Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper dosing and preparation.
Here's a detailed article about 10 precautions to take when using Vinca rosea .