Content
The medicinal properties and contraindications of periwinkle are well studied: today several drugs are produced based on the substances that make up this herb. Periwinkle is used to treat various circulatory disorders, as well as to stimulate mental functions - memory, attention, concentration. Most patients note that the first results of treatment become noticeable 1-2 weeks after the start of treatment.
Where it grows and what it looks like
Periwinkle is a perennial creeping plant with beautiful glossy leaves. In ancient times, it was endowed with magical properties, therefore it is still sometimes called a witch's violet. The plant is distinguished by its vitality: it grows even on infertile soils, it tolerates drought and temperature fluctuations well.
The flowers of the periwinkle are pale lilac in color, five-petal. They look beautiful against the backdrop of greenery, especially since the bush completely covers the soil, creating an interesting carpet. Due to this, the plant is often used in landscaping to decorate the garden.
Periwinkle grows in the Mediterranean region - these are the countries of Southern Europe, Germany and Austria, North Africa and Turkey. The grass can also be found in the Transcaucasus.
Periwinkle cultivars with good winter hardiness are cultivated on the territory of Russia.
Chemical composition
Periwinkle contains more than 20 organic and mineral compounds that have a beneficial effect on various human organs:
- alkaloids (including vincaminorine, reserpine, and isovincamine);
- flavonoids;
- carotene;
- organic acids (formic, succinic, ascorbic - vitamin C);
- mineral compounds.
Pharmacological properties
The substances that make up periwinkle are known for their biological activity. Main pharmacological properties:
- sedative effect on the central nervous system;
- vasodilation of the heart and brain;
- relaxation of the muscles of the small intestine;
- stimulating the muscles of the uterus;
- a decrease in the concentration of calcium in platelets;
- activation of glucose metabolism by increasing its absorption by brain tissues.
Healing properties
Due to the rich composition of periwinkle, medicines based on it have a complex effect on different organ systems:
- lowering blood pressure;
- improving memory, attention and other mental functions;
- improving the supply of oxygen and glucose to the brain;
- increased efficiency;
- relieving headaches and dizziness;
- preventing the formation of blood clots;
- restoration of heart rate;
- treatment of cerebral vascular spasms, migraines.
Periwinkle and preparations based on it are used both for the treatment of various diseases and for prevention. For example, it is often prescribed to people of mature age to prevent the development of senile dementia, atherosclerosis, as well as during the recovery phase after ischemic stroke.
Periwinkle is used to improve blood circulation and the activity of the nervous system
Application
Periwinkle has found application in cosmetology and medicine. It is used for treatment, disease prevention and supportive care.
In medicine
Periwinkle and preparations based on it are used to treat various circulatory and nervous system disorders:
- impairment of memory, concentration and attention;
- migraine;
- hypertension;
- headaches and dizziness;
- tachycardia;
- atherosclerosis;
- general weakness and fatigue;
- complications of diabetes (retinopathy);
- complications after menopause;
- intracranial injury;
- infertility;
- violation of potency;
- skin diseases.
In cosmetology
Since the constituent components of periwinkle are distinguished by anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and healing effects, the herb is also used in cosmetology. For example, cosmetics based on it are used:
- to prevent baldness;
- to strengthen hair;
- in the form of a wound healing agent;
- as a natural dye;
- to improve skin tone.
Vinca extract is added to creams, lotions, shampoos and other products. It is also used in lipstick (concentration varies from 5 to 10%).
Folk recipes
In folk recipes, decoctions and infusions of periwinkle are used, which are easy to get at home. During treatment, it is necessary to observe the dosage and duration of the course. Then the therapeutic effect can be felt already 10-15 days after the start of the intake.
For potency
Periwinkle also helps with the restoration of potency. To start the course, you need to take an incomplete tablespoon (15 g) of dry raw periwinkle and pour a glass (200 ml) of vodka. The solution is brought to a boil, after which the heat is immediately turned off, cooled at room temperature and filtered.
In the pharmacy, you can buy a ready-made tincture of periwinkle small
Take 7-8 drops (half a teaspoon) every morning and evening. The course of treatment: the tincture is taken for 4 days, then a pause for 2 days, and then a new cycle begins.
For hypertension
A classic recipe based on periwinkle for hypertension is a decoction, which can be prepared as follows: take a tablespoon of dry raw materials, pour a glass of boiling water, then insist using a water bath for 15-20 minutes.
To do this, you can take a ceramic glass with a lid and put it in a pot of water (on minimal heat, boiling is very weak or absent). Another option is to insist in a thermos so that heat loss is minimal (also hold for 15-20 minutes).
Then the periwinkle solution is filtered through cheesecloth or a sieve, cooled to room temperature and taken 3 times every day, preferably 30 minutes before lunch. The course of treatment lasts 3-4 weeks.
For vessels
In this case, the dosage will be individual, since it all depends on the age, condition, physiological characteristics of the organism. The standard option is 2 tablespoons of dry raw periwinkle in 1.5 cups (300 ml) of boiling water. The mixture is boiled for 15-20 minutes, covered with a lid, wrapped in a towel or blanket and infused for 1 hour. Then it is filtered and taken 3 times a day for half a glass (100 ml). The duration of the course of treatment is 2-3 weeks.
For headache
For the treatment of headaches, take a periwinkle decoction based on 1-2 tablespoons of raw materials. They are poured over with two glasses of boiling water and boiled for 15 minutes. Then filter and take half a glass 3 times a day. As a rule, a weekly course of treatment is sufficient.
With atherosclerosis
For the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis, the dosage is also set individually. You can use the standard option - 2 tablespoons of crushed periwinkle raw materials per 300 ml of boiling water. Boil for 15 minutes, cool, take 100 ml 3 times a day.
With infertility
For the treatment of infertility, the decoction is used as an auxiliary treatment. The recipe is standard, as in the previous case. The duration of the course is agreed with the doctor.
For skin diseases
Compresses based on a decoction are used to treat skin diseases.
You can get it according to the standard recipe: pour boiling water (200 ml) over 2 tablespoons of periwinkle raw materials and boil for 15-20 minutes. Then the resulting broth is cooled and filtered. Apply on clean gauze and apply compresses to wounds or pustules.
Contraindications
In some cases, the treatment and use of periwinkle and preparations based on it is excluded:
- hypersensitivity to individual components;
- coronary insufficiency;
- brain tumors of various etiologies;
- arrhythmia;
- the period of pregnancy and lactation.
In some cases, taking periwinkle and preparations based on it is contraindicated. Some patients may experience side effects during treatment - itching, rash and other allergic reactions. Overdose may cause hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (heart palpitations). In the event of these and other signs, you should immediately stop treatment and consult a doctor.
Procurement and storage of raw materials
Periwinkle harvesting begins in June. To do this, cut the grass with a knife, leaving the stems at a height of 3-5 cm. Use a pruner or scythe. Then the resulting material is sorted, discarding withering and dead leaves.
The resulting raw periwinkle is dried at a temperature of 45-50 ° C in ventilated rooms or outdoors (under a canopy) for a week. Then it is crushed and stored at home (room temperature, low humidity). They are packed in natural fabrics or in filter bags, so that they can then be used to obtain tea or broth.
Periwinkle raw materials are harvested in early summer
Conclusion
The medicinal properties and contraindications of periwinkle are associated with the characteristics of this medicinal herb. As a rule, decoctions, infusions and preparations based on periwinkle can be used by almost all adults and children over 14 years old. However, there are also contraindications. Excessive intake can lead to side effects. Therefore, you need to carefully observe the dosage and first consult your doctor.
