Medicinal Purposes of Vinca Major

Vinca major, a flowering periwinkle, is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean Basin. Planted for gardening and medicinal purposes in many parts of the world, Vinca major is used to treat a variety of conditions related to the protection of the mucous membranes, but should only be used with caution. Ecologically, it may also represent a threat to native river ecosystems in the United States, where it can grow rapidly.

Astringents

• Vinca major belongs to a class of medicines called astringents, which shrink or constrict bodily tissues. Astringent medicines can reduce mucous flow by causing constriction in the mucous membranes.

Vincamine

• The first of two major medically active chemicals in Vinca major is vincamine, which is an alkaloid. Alkaloids are nitrogen-based chemical compounds commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry to make a variety of medications. Local anesthetics, morphine and the anti-malarial drug quinine are all alkaloid medicines, along with Vinca major.

Reserpine

• The second major medically active chemical in Vinca major is reserpine, a chemical known to reduce high blood pressure.

Preparations

• Ointment made from Vinca major can ease inflammation of the skin. Tea prepared from its dried leaves can clear obstructions in the intestines and lungs, and ease hemorrhaging.

Considerations

• Vinca major is poisonous in large quantities. Use Vinca major medicinally only with caution.

Environment

• According to the Global Invasive Species Database, Vinca major escapes from gardens and is an invasive species which is a threat to native vegetation in the United States, especially in riparian (associated with rivers) forests.