Rosy Periwinkle (Vinca Rosa)
Rosy periwinkle is a perennial shrub with white pinkish flowers that grows all around the world, from Africa to the North America. This plant has been used as treatment in poultices and teas for a wide range of illnesses in the Latin world, from an anti-diabetic drug in Jamaica, to an eyewash in Cuba, and an oral gargle for easing the pain of sore throats and chest pains throughout Central America.
In the mid-1950s, scientists discovered that the plant contains the vinca alkaloids vincristine and vinblastine, which are capable of inhibiting the growth of tumors in the body. The plant’s anti-cancer properties may play a role in treating leukemia, testicular cancer and even Hodgkin’s disease, a malignant cancer affecting the lymphatic system.
Rosy periwinkle also has been found to help treat high blood pressure and blood sugar symptoms in patients, although scientists say more research needs to be done on why. Juice from the crushed plant also is shown to decrease pain caused by wasp stings.
The plant does have some side effects, which are, interestingly, similar to that of modern chemotherapy. Patients taking rosy periwinkle compounds for cancer treatment should look out for nausea and hair loss while taking the supplement.
