Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Notebook

Catharanthus lanceus

Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: The Apocynaceae family, to which this plant belongs, is known to contain potent alkaloids; any internal use must be supervised by a qualified professional. Strongly discouraged in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to risks associated with alkaloids. Never use in children without medical advice. Interactions with certain medications cannot be ruled out; seek advice before any prolonged use.

Decoction — Leaves

Traditional leaf decoction

Dried leaves were traditionally boiled gently for a few minutes, then the filtered preparation was left to cool before use. A healthcare professional or experienced herbalist must be consulted before any use, as this plant contains active alkaloids. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or a recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Compress — Fresh leaves

External leaf compress

Fresh leaves, slightly crushed, were sometimes applied directly to the skin for local external use. This traditional practice nevertheless requires the utmost caution and the advice of a specialist before any application. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or a recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

This plant grows naturally in the regions of Madagascar and southern Africa; it is not common in French herbalist shops and is mainly found through specialized botanical collections.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

Leaves are traditionally harvested during the warm and humid season, when the plant is in full vegetative growth.

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