Vinca major | Periwinkle

Vinca major, commonly known as greater periwinkle, is a trailing, evergreen perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Europe but has become naturalized in various parts of the world. Greater periwinkle is known for its attractive, violet-blue flowers and glossy green leaves. While it is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant, it has notoriety for its use in certain traditional and magical practices.

Botanical Description:

• Plant Type: Greater periwinkle is a low-growing, trailing plant that forms dense ground cover. It typically reaches heights of 12 to 24 inches (30-60 cm).

• Leaves: The leaves are opposite, leathery, and elliptical, with a glossy green appearance. They are typically 1-2 inches long.

• Flowers: The flowers of greater periwinkle are five-petaled and violet-blue, about 1 inch in diameter. They have a striking appearance and bloom in late spring and early summer.

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Medicinal Uses

• Antispasmodic: Vinca major contains compounds that have antispasmodic properties. This means that it can help to relax muscles and relieve cramping.

• Cardiotonic: Vinca major contains compounds that have cardiotonic properties. This means that it can help to strengthen the heart muscle.

• Hemostatic: Vinca major contains compounds that have hemostatic properties. This means that it can help to stop bleeding.

Magical Correspondences:

• Protection: Vinca major is often associated with protection, especially in folklore and certain traditional practices. It has protective qualities, particularly against negative energies and entities.

• Healing: Greater periwinkle is associated with healing and is used in rituals or charms to promote physical or spiritual well-being.

• Love and Spirituality: The attractive flowers of greater periwinkle may be associated with love, spiritual growth, and beauty.

Magickal Properties

• Love: Vinca major is associated with love and affection. It is often used in rituals to attract love and promote harmony in relationships.

• Protection: Vinca major is also associated with protection. It is often used in amulets and charms to ward off evil and negativity.

• Healing: Vinca major is also associated with healing. It is often used in rituals to promote healing and recovery from illness.

Elemental Correspondences

• Element: Earth

• Planet: Venus

• Color: Blue, White

Associated Deitites and Traditions

• Venus: The Roman goddess of love, beauty, and pleasure, Venus is associated with Vinca major's love and healing properties.

• Aphrodite: The Greek goddess of love, beauty, and procreation, Aphrodite is also associated with Vinca major's love and healing properties.

• Celtic traditions: Vinca major has been used in Celtic traditions for centuries to promote healing and protection.

Uses in Rituals

Vinca major is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of magical practices. It is often used in incense blends, amulets, and charms. It can also be used in rituals to promote love, protection, and healing.

Here are some specific examples of how to use Vinca major in rituals:

• Create an incense blend using Vinca major to attract love.

• Wear a Vinca major amulet to ward off evil and negativity.

• Add Vinca major to a bath to promote healing and relaxation.

• Use Vinca major in a ritual to connect with Venus or Aphrodite.

• Hang a wreath of Vinca major above your doorway to protect your home from harm.

Tips for Using Vinca major in Rituals

• If using fresh Vinca major, gather it when the plant is in bloom.

• When using dried Vinca major, ensure that it is properly dried and stored to preserve its potency.

• Always cleanse and consecrate Vinca major before using it in rituals.

• Use Vinca major with respect and gratitude for its magical properties.