Scientific name: Vinca major, Vinca minor, Apocynaceae (family)

Other names: Periwinkle

Medical uses and remedies:

Astringent (to shrink body tissue)
Blood circulation
Blood in urine (hematuria)
Brain metabolism
Cardiovascular disorders
Colitis
Diarrhea
Digestive conditions
Gum bleeding
Menstrual flow excess (menorrhagia or metrorrhagia)
Mouth ulcers
Nose bleeds (epistaxis)
Sedative
Sore throat

Dosage:

Tea - Make an infusion with 5 g (1 tsp.) of dried vinca in a cup of water, 3 times daily.

Tincture - Take a dose of 1 - 2 ml of vinca tincture, three times daily.

Cautions and side effects:

Vinca should not be used by nursing women as it is known to decrease the milk supply. It should also not be used during pregnancy without prior profession recommendation. Check with a medical professional for additional precautions and contraindications before taking any herb.

Active ingredients:

Indole alkaloids
Tannins
Vinpocetine (from vincamine)

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