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Vinca minor (Apocynaceae)

Botanical Information

Family: Apocynaceae
Common Names: Lesser Periwinkle, Common Periwinkle, Creeping Myrtle
Parts Used: Leaves, Stems, Flowers

Description

Vinca minor, commonly known as Lesser Periwinkle, is a trailing evergreen groundcover native to Europe and western Asia but widely naturalized in North America. Traditionally, it has been used as a circulatory stimulant, astringent, and nervine. The plant contains alkaloids (including vincamine), flavonoids, and tannins, making it beneficial for cognitive function, blood circulation, and nervous system health. Vincamine, a major alkaloid, is the precursor to the pharmaceutical drug vinpocetine, which is used to enhance cerebral blood flow and cognitive function.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European and Traditional Western Herbalism for improving memory, focus, and mental clarity.
  • Historically applied as an astringent for wound healing, excessive menstrual bleeding, and diarrhea.
  • Traditionally used to improve blood circulation, especially to the brain, aiding in dementia and cognitive decline.
  • Known in folk medicine for its ability to reduce vertigo, headaches, and tinnitus.

Constituents

  • Vincamine (cerebral vasodilator)
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Saponins
  • Alkaloids (Minor amounts of vinblastine and vincristine, though primarily found in Vinca rosea, or Catharanthus roseus)

Actions

  • Cerebral circulatory stimulant
  • Nootropic (enhances cognitive function)
  • Astringent
  • Nervine
  • Mild Hypotensive
  • Hemostatic (Stops excessive bleeding)

Medicinal Uses

  1. Cognitive Function & Brain Circulation
    • Increases blood flow to the brain, supporting memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
    • Traditionally used for dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and cognitive decline.
    • May help reduce brain fog, sluggish thinking, and mental fatigue.
  2. Cardiovascular & Circulatory Health
    • Improves blood flow and oxygenation, especially in aging populations.
    • Helps with poor circulation, cold extremities, and low blood pressure.
  3. Headaches, Dizziness & Tinnitus
    • May help reduce headaches, vertigo, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
    • Traditionally used for migraines and mild hypotension.
  4. Astringent for Excessive Bleeding & Wounds
    • Historically used for heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), nosebleeds, and hemorrhoids.
    • Applied topically as a poultice or wash for wounds, ulcers, and sore gums.
  5. Digestive Support
    • Mildly astringent, helping with diarrhea and gastrointestinal irritation.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Leaves & Flowers):

  • 1 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water.
  • Steep for 10-15 minutes, drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice or Wash (For Wounds & Bleeding):

  • Prepare a strong infusion, soak a cloth, and apply to wounds, sore gums, or inflamed skin.

Capsules (Standardized Extract – Vincamine/Vinpocetine):

  • 10-30 mg of vincamine daily for cognitive support (as used in nootropic supplements).

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not recommended due to potential blood circulation effects.
  • Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): May further lower blood pressure, so use cautiously.
  • Blood Thinners & Anticoagulants: Vinca minor may enhance blood-thinning effects, so caution is needed.
  • Toxicity: While generally safe in small doses, excessive intake can lead to dizziness, nausea, and low blood pressure.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports mental clarity, blood circulation, and tissue astringency.
European Folk Medicine: Used for cognitive health, excessive bleeding, and cardiovascular support.

Combinations

  • For Cognitive Function & Memory: Combine with ginkgo biloba and gotu kola.
  • For Circulatory Support: Use with hawthorn and cayenne.
  • For Headaches & Tinnitus: Blend with feverfew and skullcap.
  • For Wound Healing & Astringency: Pair with yarrow and plantain.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting:
    • Aerial parts are gathered in spring and summer when flowering peaks.
  • Drying:
    • Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area to preserve alkaloid content.
  • Storage:
    • Keep dried material in an airtight container, away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

  • Vincamine (derived from Vinca minor) has been studied for enhancing cerebral blood flow and memory function.
  • Clinical trials suggest it may help in early-stage dementia and cognitive impairment.
  • Research on vinpocetine (a synthetic derivative of vincamine) supports its role in brain health, stroke recovery, and neuroprotection.

Conclusion

Vinca minor (Lesser Periwinkle) is a valuable nootropic herb that enhances cerebral circulation, supports cognitive function, and provides astringent benefits for wounds and excessive bleeding. It is a mild yet effective brain tonic, but should be used cautiously in those with low blood pressure or on blood-thinning medications.