Madagascar Periwinkle
Parts Usually Used
The parts that grow above ground and the root are used medicinally. The leaves, stems, and flowers contain important medicinal compounds.
Description of Plant(s) and Culture
An evergreen subshrub or herbaceous plant growing 1m tall. 5-9cm long, glossy green and hairless. 5-3cm tube and 2-5cm diameter corolla with five petal-like lobes. Fruit is a pair of follicles 2-4cm long. Plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Where Found
Native and endemic to Madagascar but now has a pantropical distribution. Widely cultivated and naturalized in subtropical and tropical areas including Australia, Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Pakistan, and the United States.
Medicinal Properties
Contains potent anti-cancer compounds vinblastine and vincristine used in chemotherapy. Has demonstrated antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and hypotensive properties. Studies have shown effectiveness in treating various cancers including Hodgkin’s lymphoma, leukemia, breast cancer, lung cancer and other malignancies through multiple mechanisms including disruption of cell division.
Biochemical Information
Contains over 70 different indole alkaloids including the important anti-cancer compounds vinblastine and vincristine. Also contains other alkaloids like vindoline, catharanthine, and ajmalicine, along with tannins, flavonoids and other compounds.
Uses
Folk traditions and herbalists historically utilized the plant for managing high blood pressure and diabetes. It was traditionally administered for respiratory complaints, including coughs, sore throats, and lung congestion. Practitioners also applied it topically to insect bites and wounds, and recommended it for eye inflammation as well as menstrual difficulties.
Warning
Madagascar periwinkle is considered LIKELY UNSAFE for self-medication when taken orally due to toxic vinca alkaloids. Side effects can include: Nausea and vomiting Hair loss Hearing problems Dizziness Nerve problems Liver damage Low blood sugar Risk of miscarriage in pregnancy Dangerous interactions with diabetes medications Can be fatal if misused