Vinca Major Herbs

Though cast aside at the advent of modern medicine, herbs are making their way back into mainstream medicine as an alternative method for promoting health and well-being. Proponents say herbs aid the body in encouraging optimum health by repairing and strengthening various systems and organs. Vinca major is an herb that has long been acknowledged by herbalists as a remedy for a variety of ailments. Its effectiveness, however, (as with most herbs) is inconclusive due to inadequately documented data. Few herbs are approved by The Food and Drug Administration, and those that are have been recognized as supplements -- not as a food or drug.

Commonly Called Periwinkle

• Vinca major can aid in eliminating the common headache.

  Commonly known as Periwinkle, vinca major contains a number of alkaloids, namely that of vincamine --which functions predominantly as a vasodilator, a blood thinner and a memory enhancer. Primarily, it directly affects the central nervous system and proponents say is beneficial in treating a medley of everyday disorders.

Astringent Properties

• Itchy rashes can be relieved with Vinca Major.

  With strong astringent properties, vinca major can be used as a mouth wash to alleviate the pain associated with canker sores -- and other inflammations of the mouth. Herbalists say it can also be used to treat a variety of menstrual disorders, such as heavy bleeding, and it can decrease the frequency of nose bleeds as well. Externally, this herb can be used to mitigate problems related to acne, eczema, psoriasis and other skin ailments.

Increasing Blood Flow

• Vinca major has sedative properties and thus aids in calming many of the symptoms associated with tinnitus, headaches, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and memory loss with its ability to increase blood flow and oxygen throughout the body, but most notably in the cerebral veins. With these capabilities, it is suspected that vinca major could potentially play a role in improving the memory of some patients who suffer from Alzheimer's Disease. Vinca major receives two stars (out of three) for the treatment of Alzheimer's, and one star for various other ailments by Peace Health -- implying that regardless of its traditional support, there are no scientific studies yet concluded to back its medicinal claims.

Potentially Poisonous

• It's best to consult a professional when seeking use of any plant-based remedies.

  There are several varieties of vinca, and one plant species can be easily mistaken for another. Some varieties are considered unsuitable for human consumption. Using vinca major without proper knowledge or instruction is ill-advised. Always consult a health care professional before using any herbs -- especially if you are pregnant or nursing, have a previous health condition, or a general concern.