Contents
The medicinal properties and contraindications of periwinkle are well studied: today several preparations 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 does it grow and what does it look like?
Periwinkle is a perennial creeping plant with beautiful glossy leaves. In ancient times, it was endowed with magical properties, which is why it is still sometimes called witchcraft violet. The plant is distinguished by vitality: it grows even on infertile soils, tolerates drought and temperature fluctuations well.
The flowers of the periwinkle are pale lilac in color, five-petal. They look beautiful against the background of greenery, especially since the bush completely covers the soil, creating an interesting carpet. Due to this, the plant is often used in landscape design to decorate the garden.
Periwinkle grows in the Mediterranean region – these are the countries of Southern Europe, Germany and Austria, North Africa and Turkey. Grass can also be found in Transcaucasia.
On the territory of Our Country, cultivars of periwinkle are cultivated with good winter hardiness.
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 the periwinkle are known for their biological activity. Main pharmacological properties:
- sedative effect on the central nervous system;
- expansion of the vessels of the heart and brain;
- relaxation of the muscles of the small intestine;
- stimulation of the muscles of the uterus;
- decrease in calcium concentration in platelets;
- activation of glucose metabolism by increasing its absorption by brain tissues.
Medicinal properties
Due to the rich composition of periwinkle, medicines based on it have a complex effect on different organ systems:
- lowering blood pressure;
- improvement of memory, attention and other mental functions;
- improving the supply of oxygen and glucose to the brain;
- increase in working capacity;
- removal of headaches and dizziness;
- preventing the formation of blood clots;
- restoration of heart rhythm;
- treatment of cerebrovascular 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, and also at the stage of recovery from 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 maintenance therapy.
In medicine
Periwinkle and preparations based on it are used to treat various circulatory and nervous system disorders:
- deterioration 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 differ in 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 (the concentration varies from 5 to 10%).
Traditional recipes
In folk recipes, decoctions and infusions of periwinkle are used, which are easy to obtain 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 periwinkle raw materials and pour a glass (200 ml) of vodka. The solution is brought to a boil, after which the fire 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. Course of treatment: tincture is taken for 4 days, then a pause for 2 days, and then a new cycle begins.
From hypertension
The classic recipe based on periwinkle for hypertension is a decoction that 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 (at a minimum 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 gauze 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 everything depends on the age, condition, physiological characteristics of the body. 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 filter and take 3 times a day for half a cup (100 ml). The duration of the course of treatment is 2-3 weeks.
Headache
For the treatment of headaches, a decoction of periwinkle is taken based on 1-2 tablespoons of raw materials. They are poured 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 week’s 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 chopped periwinkle raw materials per 300 ml of boiling water. Boil for 15 minutes, cool, take 3 ml 100 times a day.
With infertility
For the treatment of infertility, a decoction is used as an adjuvant treatment. The recipe is standard, as in the previous case. The duration of the course is agreed with the doctor.
From skin diseases
For the treatment of skin diseases, decoction-based compresses are used.
You can get it according to the standard recipe: pour 200 tablespoons of periwinkle raw materials with boiling water (2 ml) and boil for 15-20 minutes. Then the resulting broth is cooled and filtered. Apply to clean gauze and make compresses on wounds or pustules.
Противопоказания
In some cases, the treatment and use of periwinkle and drugs based on it is excluded:
- hypersensitivity to individual components;
- coronary insufficiency;
- brain tumors of various etiologies;
- arrhythmia;
- 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, rashes and other allergic reactions. In case of overdose, hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) may occur. In the event of these and other signs, you should immediately stop treatment and consult a doctor.
Procurement and storage of raw materials
The harvesting of periwinkle starts 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 a scythe. Then the resulting material is sorted, discarding withering and dead leaves.
The resulting periwinkle raw material is dried at a temperature of 45-50 ° C in rooms with ventilation or on the street (under a canopy) for a week. Then it is crushed and stored at home (room temperature, low humidity). Packed in natural fabrics or in filter bags, then used to make tea or decoction.
Raw periwinkle is 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 of age. However, there are also contraindications. Immoderate intake can lead to side effects. Therefore, you need to carefully observe the dosage and consult with your doctor first.
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