Lesser periwinkle
- Origin
- Europe
- Part used
- Leaves, Root
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
Lesser periwinkle has carpeted the woodlands and old walls of Europe for centuries, long nicknamed the "sorcerer's violet." The old herbalists credited it with tonic virtues for the mind and memory, and regarded it, in folk tradition, as a plant tied to fidelity and protection.
Traditional uses
Traditional support for memory
Lesser periwinkle leaves were traditionally used to support mental sharpness and cerebral circulation in older people.
Old astringent use
Because of its tannin content, periwinkle was traditionally used as a mild astringent for minor digestive troubles.
Traditional mouthwashes
Leaf decoctions were once used as gargles to soothe irritated gums or minor sore throats.
Soothing external use
As a poultice or compress, periwinkle was traditionally applied to the skin for its soothing, tightening properties.
Before you use it
A plant containing alkaloids (including vincamine): never exceed the traditional uses reported, and consult a health professional before any internal use. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding because of hormonal and potentially abortifacient properties reported in folk tradition. To be avoided in children, and in case of anticoagulant or blood-pressure-lowering treatment because of possible interactions. Do not confuse it with other periwinkle species, and do not consume it outside a properly supervised preparation, as the plant is toxic at high doses.
The detailed notebook
- Prepared as a paste or decoction
- Traditional duration of use
- Known contraindications
- Related species and their uses
Where to find it
Partner herbalists — available with the detailed notebook.
Sources
PFAF, Wikipedia