Periwinkle (Vinca minor and Vinca major), also known as Madagascar periwinkle or lesser periwinkle, is more than just a beautiful ornamental plant. This herb has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its powerful medicinal properties, particularly for brain health, blood circulation, and immune support. Here are the top benefits and uses of periwinkle that make it a valuable plant to have in your garden and medicine cabinet.

1. Supports Brain Function and Memory

Periwinkle is rich in alkaloids like vincamine and vinpocetine, which have been shown to:

Improve cognitive function and memory.
Enhance blood circulation to the brain, reducing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Help with focus, mental clarity, and learning abilities.

How to use:

Drink periwinkle tea (mild infusion) to support brain health.
Vinpocetine (extracted from periwinkle) is used in supplement form for cognitive enhancement.

2. Enhances Blood Circulation

Periwinkle improves circulation by dilating blood vessels and increasing oxygen supply to tissues.
Helps lower blood pressure and prevents blood clots, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Useful in treating cold hands and feet caused by poor circulation.

How to use:

A mild tea or tincture made from periwinkle leaves can support blood flow.

3. Natural Remedy for Headaches and Dizziness

By promoting better oxygenation of the brain, periwinkle helps reduce migraines, dizziness, and vertigo.
It has mild vasodilatory effects, which can relieve tension headaches.

How to use:

Drink periwinkle tea or take a standardized vinpocetine supplement for relief.

4. Helps Manage Diabetes and Blood Sugar Levels

Periwinkle contains compounds that may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Its antioxidant properties protect against diabetic complications like nerve damage.

How to use:

Consume periwinkle extract in controlled doses (consult a doctor before use).

5. Supports Wound Healing and Skin Health

Periwinkle has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help heal wounds, burns, and skin irritations.
It is used in traditional medicine for treating eczema, rashes, and insect bites.

How to use:

Apply periwinkle-infused water or paste to minor wounds.

6. Boosts Immune System and Fights Infections

Contains antibacterial and antifungal compounds that help fight infections.
Used in traditional remedies to treat coughs, colds, and sore throats.

How to use:

Gargle with periwinkle tea to soothe throat infections.
Use periwinkle-infused oil to treat skin infections.

7. Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties

Periwinkle-derived alkaloids (such as vincristine and vinblastine) are used in chemotherapy treatments for leukemia and lymphoma.
These compounds help slow down the growth of cancer cells.

Note: Periwinkle’s cancer-fighting properties are mainly used in pharmaceutical settings, not home remedies.

How to Use Periwinkle

Periwinkle Tea:

Steep 1 teaspoon of dried periwinkle leaves in 1 cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
Drink 1 cup per day, but avoid excessive consumption.

Periwinkle Tincture:

Available in health stores; follow dosage instructions carefully.

Topical Use:

Infuse periwinkle in coconut or olive oil for use on wounds and skin conditions.

Precautions and Side Effects

Periwinkle contains powerful alkaloids and should be used in moderation.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid periwinkle.
Can cause low blood pressure if consumed in excess.
Always consult a healthcare provider before using periwinkle as a supplement.

Periwinkle is a powerful medicinal plant with benefits for brain function, circulation, immune health, and wound healing. While its extracts are used in modern medicine, traditional preparations like teas and tinctures can provide natural support for various health conditions.