Periwinkle

Vinca major

Apocynaceae

Names: Greater Periwinkle

Habitat: Indigenous to Southern Europe

Collection: This herb is collected in the spring.

Part Used: Aerial parts.

Constituents: Indole alkaloids, tannins

Actions: Astringent

Indications: Periwinkle is an excellent all-round astringent that maybe used internally or externally. Its main use is in the treatment of excessivemenstrual flow, either during the period itself (menorrhagia) or withblood loss between periods (metrorrhagia). As with other remedies thateffect the uterus, it can be used to address similar processes in the urinarysystem. Thus it can be used for cases hematuria. It can be used in digestiveproblems such as colitis or diarrhoea where it will act to reducethe loss of fluid or blood whilst toning the membranes. It may also be used incases of nose bleed, bleeding gums, mouth ulcers orsore throats. It has a questionable reputation for aiding in thetreatment of diabetes.

Combinations: It will combine well with Cranesbill and Agrimony. Formenstrual problems it may be used with Beth Root.

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto lteaspoonful of the dried herb and let infuse for l0-l5 minutes. This should bedrunk three times a day. Tincture: take l-2ml of the tincture three times aday.