Herbier des Anciens — Detailed notebook

Lesser periwinkle

Vinca minor

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: Plant containing alkaloids (including vincamine): never exceed traditionally reported uses and consult a healthcare professional before any internal use. Contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its hormonal and potentially abortive properties reported in folk tradition. Avoid in children, and in case of anticoagulant or hypotensive treatment due to possible interactions. Do not confuse with other periwinkle species, and do not consume outside of a supervised preparation, as the plant is toxic at high doses.

Infusion — Leaves

Traditional leaf infusion

Dried leaves were infused for a few minutes in simmering water, then filtered before consumption. This preparation was reserved for occasional and supervised use, never daily. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or a recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Decoction — Root

Root decoction for external use

The root was traditionally boiled at length in water to obtain a decoction intended for compresses or gargles. Professional advice is recommended before any use, as the root is richer in alkaloids than the leaves. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or a recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Tincture — Leaves

Fresh leaf tincture

Fresh leaves were sometimes macerated in alcohol for several weeks to obtain a concentrated tincture, used with great restraint. This preparation should only be considered under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or a recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Lesser periwinkle is found wild in hedgerows and woodlands of Europe, but it is also cultivated as an ornamental plant or sold dried in some specialized herbalist shops.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

Leaves are traditionally harvested in spring and early summer, before flowering, while the root is gathered in autumn.

← Back to profile