The properties of Dwarf Periwinkle
The herb of Vinca minor (dwarf periwinkle, lesser periwinkle, small periwinkle, common periwinkle, myrtle or creeping myrtle) contains indole alkaloids (0.15–1.4%). The major constituent is vincamine. It enhances the ability of the brain to utilize oxygen and glucose and thus stimulates brain function. Other alkaloids include reserpine, reserpinine, akuammicine, majdine, vinerine, ervine, vineridine, tombozine, vincamajine, vincanine, vincanidine, vincamone, apovincamine, vincaminol, desoxyvincaminol, vincorine and perivincine. Vincamine is hypotensive; increases blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. The vincamine content in the herb is low and fluctuates greatly. Overdose of the extract brings about a severe drop in blood pressure. Vincamine is a nootropic monoterpenoid indole alkaloid, as a pure substance is available for therapeutic administration.
