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The Surprising Benefits and Care of the Vinca Rosea Plant

Introducing the Fascinating World of Catharanthus Roseus: Unveiling Its Secrets and Surprising Benefits. Learn about the captivating care and unexpected uses of this enchanting plant, as we explore the wonders of the Catharanthus Roseus, more commonly known as the Madagascar Periwinkle or the delicate Vinca Rosea. Uncover the mysteries of this floral beauty and discover why it has captured the hearts of gardeners and enthusiasts alike.

Administrator

9 August, 2024

The Periwinkle plant, or Catharanthus roseus, is a familiar name to many of us. A simple Google search will yield extensive information about this plant. However, if you want to know more about its specific benefits and proper care, read on!

1 Periwinkle Plant Features

Periwinkle’s vibrant purple and pink flowers

Also known as Yang Jiao or Truong Xuan, the periwinkle plant is a member of the Apocynaceae family. It grows in bushes, reaching heights between 30 and 90 cm. Unlike the water coconut tree, which has rounded leaves with blunt tips, the periwinkle plant has long, pointed leaves that are green. Its flowers, which grow in the leaf axils, are typically pink, white, or red. The fruit is oval-shaped and contains tiny seeds. Periwinkle plants have a cluster root system.

This plant is native to many countries worldwide, including Brazil, Indonesia, India, and Vietnam. There are four types of periwinkle: trailing, upright, and feng shui periwinkle. Each variety has unique characteristics and comes in a range of colors, including purple, pink, and white.

2 Significance of Periwinkle

Trailing periwinkle adds a splash of color to your home

Ornamental Purposes: With its array of colors and long blooming season, periwinkle is often used to decorate windowsills, balconies, and public flower beds. It blooms from spring to autumn.

Symbol of Good Fortune and Health: Periwinkle is a popular gift choice for various occasions, including holidays, birthdays, and longevity celebrations. It is believed to bring good luck, positive energy, wealth, and good health to the recipient.

Representation of Success: Beyond its association with wealth, periwinkle also symbolizes success. It is often given as a gift to wish the recipient academic achievement and a prosperous career.

3 Medicinal Uses of Periwinkle

Periwinkle’s beauty and medicinal properties

According to Master’s Degree holder and Doctor Hoàng Khánh Toàn, head of the Traditional Medicine Department at the Central Military Hospital, recent research in modern pharmacology has revealed the presence of valuable compounds in the roots and leaves of the periwinkle plant. These include Vinblastine, Vincristine, and Vinleurosin.

While Vinblastine has shown effectiveness against cancer, its concentration in the periwinkle plant is still relatively low.

Additionally, Canadian scientists have discovered the presence of Vincaleucoblastin and three alkaloids—Leucosin, Leurocristine, and Leurosidin—in the plant, which are believed to possess anti-tumor properties.

In traditional medicine, periwinkle is valued for its ability to treat parasitic worms and reduce fever. The leaves are also used to address various skin conditions.

In Vietnam, practitioners of traditional Eastern medicine often use periwinkle to prepare herbal remedies for treating hypertension, diabetes, insomnia, and anxiety.

4 Herbal Remedies Using Periwinkle

Periwinkle’s versatility in Eastern medicine

Periwinkle is renowned for its therapeutic properties, especially in treating the following conditions:

Hypertension:

Combine 20 grams of dried periwinkle with 20 grams of mulberry leaves. Brew this mixture in an earthenware pot, and drink the infusion two to three times a day. After a few weeks, you should notice an improvement in your blood pressure levels.

Bacterial Dysentery:

Gather the following ingredients: 15 grams of pennywort, 10 grams of Coptis chinensis, 15 grams of ink plant, 15 grams of toasted periwinkle leaves, 10 grams of glossy privet fruit, 15 grams of ginseng, 15 grams of bitter herb, and 15 grams of milkweed. Clean and boil these ingredients in a liter of water. Reduce the heat and simmer until the liquid is reduced by half. Divide the decoction into three equal parts and consume three times daily.

Pain Relief:

Combine 15 grams of periwinkle leaves with 15 grams of Pagoda tree leaves. Grind this mixture into a paste and apply it to the affected area. Wrap the area with a thin cloth and repeat this process for a month to alleviate pain.

Insomnia:

Mix 20 grams of periwinkle stems and leaves with 15 grams of silk tree leaves and 15 grams of silk tree mimosa seeds. Brew this mixture and drink the infusion before bedtime to improve sleep quality.

5 Precautions When Using Periwinkle

Periwinkle should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women

Despite its medicinal benefits, it is important to exercise caution when using periwinkle. It is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Additionally, individuals with low blood pressure should refrain from consuming periwinkle.

Using periwinkle as a herbal remedy may cause side effects such as headaches, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and hair loss.

Consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist before incorporating periwinkle into your treatment regimen to minimize the risk of adverse effects.

6 How to Grow and Care for Periwinkle

Periwinkle in full bloom

To ensure your periwinkle plant thrives and blooms abundantly, follow these planting and care instructions:

Planting Periwinkle:

Select healthy, robust periwinkle seeds and soak them in warm water for about five hours. Prepare a soil mixture of husk, coconut fiber, and black sand.

Fill a cup with the soil mixture and poke a hole in the center for drainage. Use a toothpick to create a hole in the soil, insert a soaked periwinkle seed, and cover it with soil. Mist the soil with water, and once the seed has germinated, continue watering to encourage growth. When the plant reaches about one gang (approximately 30 cm) in height, transplant it into a pot or flower bed.

Caring for Periwinkle:

Watering: Water your periwinkle plant by misting it with a spray bottle to avoid overwatering. The best time to water is in the morning and evening, as this helps the plant retain moisture for a more extended period.

Fertilizing: Mix one teaspoon of fertilizer with one liter of water and use this solution to feed your plant every ten to fifteen days to promote lush growth.

Temperature: Periwinkle thrives in dry, sunny, and airy locations with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.

Now you have a comprehensive understanding of the periwinkle plant, its beauty, and its benefits. Why not add a few pots of periwinkle to your living space to enjoy its vibrant colors and positive energy?

Frequently asked questions

The Vinca rosea, also known as the Madagascar periwinkle, is a small herbaceous perennial plant native to Madagascar. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant and is valued for its colorful flowers and ability to thrive in a range of environments.

The Vinca rosea plant has a number of surprising benefits. The plant has been used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments including diabetes, high blood pressure, and inflammation. Additionally, the plant is a source of valuable compounds that have potential applications in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Vinca rosea plants are relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, allowing the top soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, and prune as needed to maintain the desired shape and size.

While the Vinca rosea plant is generally safe, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested in large quantities. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets, and always wash hands after handling to avoid any potential irritation.

Yes, Vinca rosea plants can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light. Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and provide additional humidity if the air is particularly dry. Regularly rotate the plant to ensure even growth on all sides.