Greater periwinkle (Vinca major) is an evergreen perennial plant that belongs to the dogbane family (Apocynaceae). It is native to Europe but can be found in various parts of the world including North America, Asia, and North Africa. Greater periwinkle is also known by its other common names such as bigleaf periwinkle, large periwinkle, blue periwinkle, and greater myrtle.
Greater periwinkle has shiny, dark green, oval-shaped leaves that grow opposite each other on long stems. The plant produces beautiful blue or purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are funnel-shaped and have five petals that grow up to 2 cm wide. The fruit of greater periwinkle is a pair of slender, cylindrical capsules that split open to reveal the plant’s seeds.
The medicinal properties of greater periwinkle have been known for centuries. It contains a group of alkaloids, including vincamine and vinpocetine, which are believed to have beneficial effects on brain function and blood flow. These alkaloids are also used in the treatment of memory loss, cognitive impairment, and cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke.
Greater periwinkle has also been used to treat a variety of other health conditions. It has been used as a diuretic to increase urine output and as an astringent to help stop bleeding. Additionally, it has been used to treat eye problems such as conjunctivitis and eye infections.
In traditional medicine, greater periwinkle has been used to treat cancer, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness in this area. The plant should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and it may interact with certain medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.
In conclusion, greater periwinkle is a beautiful and useful plant with many medicinal benefits. Its alkaloids have been shown to have positive effects on brain function and blood flow, and it has been used to treat a variety of health conditions such as memory loss and eye infections. However, caution should be taken when using greater periwinkle, and it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.