Vinca minor is a plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. Its use is linked to its use in natural medicine and is indicated as an alternative aid in the process of treating and curing some diseases. It is native to Europe, Spain and the Caucasus, but can be commonly identified in tropical regions around the world.

With regard to its physical characteristics, it has prostrate non-flowering branches, in addition to other erect ones that present flowers at their ends. The leaves are green and oval in shape. As for the flowers, they are pedicled lilac with five irregular petals. Fruits are identified as small follicles that hold two to three seeds.

Depending on the region where it is found, the minor vinca may be known by many other names. Among the main ones are: mandrake, periwinkle and periwinkle. With medicinal purpose, the entire structure of this plant can be used. However, before including it in any treatment, the indication is that the doctor is consulted.

Only this professional has enough knowledge to make this certification. It is also important to take into account the patient’s physical and organic characteristics, as it can trigger other types of symptoms. Dosage is another factor that directly affects the results achieved by patients.

medicinal properties

Vinca minor is endowed with some medicinal properties, such as: astringent, analgesic, probiotic, bactericidal, vermifuge, amoebicide, diotonic, digestive, laxative, stomachic, febrifuge and hypotensive. Thus, its use is linked to the treatment of a series of diseases. Among the main ones are: regulating menstrual flow, especially menorrhagias and metrorrhagias; urinary affection, gastrointestinal affections, bleeding gums, mouth ulcers and tonsillitis.

Its use is also recommended in cases of abscesses and eczema. Patients with diabetes can also benefit from the plant’s healing properties. Minor vinca is used internally for circulatory disorders, improved cerebral circulation and brain metabolism, and hypertension.

Minor vinca tea

One of the most accessible ways to include the plant in alternative health treatments is through the preparation of tea. For this you will need 200 ml of filtered water and a spoon (dessert) of the dried plant. Using a pot with a lid, bring the water to a boil. As soon as it starts bubbling, turn off the heat and add the recommended amount of smaller vinca.

Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. After this time, use a sieve to remove all the herb so that only the liquid remains. The recommendation is that the daily intake does not exceed three cups.

Care and contraindications

When consumed as indicated, the plant does not have any consequences for human health.

The use of the plant should be avoided by people who have gastrointestinal disturbances, severe hypotension and skin rash. Although it has not been proven any kind of effect in using pregnant women or who are breastfeeding, the indication is to avoid.

In cases of less excessive use of vinca, the patient can trigger problems with a sudden drop in blood pressure.