Madagascar periwinkle- its astounding benefits

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Madagascar periwinkle- its astounding benefits

Introduction:

The "ever-blooming blossom," or Sadabahar, aka "Madagascar Periwinkle" in English, "Nayantara" in Bengali, "Ushamalari" in Malayalam, and "Sadapushpa" in Hindi, is popular in herbal and modern medicine.

In addition to reducing the risk of developing cancer, it is used to treat a wide range of health issues, including diabetes, sore throats, lung congestion, skin infections, and eye irritation.

Availability:

Essentially a native of Madagascar, the plant is now found to be growing all over the world. The flowers come in 2 colours, dark pinkish-purple and milky white. It can be used as :

1. The freshly plucked leaves can be chewed to kickstart the day

2. Leaves boiled in water can be filtered and drank

3. Dried periwinkle leaves/flowers are available as a powder for consumption with water or fruit juice.

Benefits of Madagascar periwinkle:

1. Diabetes:

The flower extract activates the beta-pancreatic cells' production of insulin, which reduces the breakdown of starch into glucose, which in turn leads to low blood glucose levels.

The plant is consumed daily to help control the body's insulin levels in the Philippines and China.

1. Respiratory disorders

The active ingredients in the flower provide the best treatment for bronchitis, COPD, asthma, cough, and cold symptoms. Additionally, it relieves congestion, sore throats, coughs, and mucus buildup in the respiratory tract.

1. Hypertension (high blood pressure):

The cardio-tonic properties of periwinkle flowers enhance cardiovascular endurance, which stabilizes blood presure.

1. Enhances cognitive functions:

Flavonoids and antioxidants enhance memory, concentration, calmness, and focus.

The neuroprotective components ease tension in the brain, promote proper blood, and slow the aging of brain cells.

1. Improves skin health:

It treats free radical damage due to the sun rays, reducing signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines, spots, dark circles, etc. It aids in reducing acne and pimples and soothes skin infections like rosacea and eczema.

1. Regulates menstrual cycle:

Extracts from periwinkle plants aid in blood cleansing and uterine health restoration, which promote regular, healthy menstrual cycles.

1. Quickens wound healing:

It helps in disinfecting a wound or bite to prevent the spread of infection.

1. Anti-cancer effects:

It boosts immunity, assists in the reduction of tumors, and prevents metastasis. In the case of leukemia and Hodgkin's lymphoma, the active ingredients vincristine and vinblastine are particularly beneficial.

Conclusion:

From roadside to our gardens, periwinkle is omnipresrent. These plants are easy to grow, need very little care, and bloom at all seasons. Apart from its ornamental use, periwinkle’s medicinal properties are yet to be harnessed to their full potential.