Lesser Periwinkle - Vinca minor (Apocynaceae)

Description: Evergreen perennial with stems that root at the leaf nodes, and leafy flowering stems that grow up to 2 ft. In early summer bears green glossy ovular leaves and pale blue flowers with lighter centers. Uses: Use green flowering plant in spring fresh or dried. Used as a gargle for sore throats, and as an astringent for wounds. Also taken in a tea to reduce blood pressure and hypertension. CAUTION: Large amounts may be toxic, causing circulatory disorders. Infusion: Used to prepare more delicate parts of plants. 3 cups of water to 1 ounce dry herb or 1.5 ounce of fresh herbs; pour the freshly boiled water over herbs in a pot, cover the pot and let the herbs steep for at least 10 minutes. Strain and serve. Refrigerate unused portions, lasts up to 24 hours. Tincture: A tincture is a good solution for long term treatment as will store for up to two years. 8 ounces of dried herb, 1.5 cups of alcohol (grain alcohol like Everclear), and 4 cups of water; Chop your herbs up finely and put them in a glass jar with a good tight fitting lid. Pour the liquid over the herbs and tighten the lid. Keep the jar in a warm, dark place for 2 weeks. Shake the jar every two days. After the two weeks, strain the liquid off through cheesecloth into a clean colored glass jar and store away from heat and direct sunlight.

Medicinal uses: sore throat, astringent and styptic for wounds, sores, ulcers, blood pressure and hypertension