The periwinkles have bloommed a bit early this year. This plant has an interesting background. It had been known for protection against evil spirits in Europe, and in France itself was known as the "violet of the sorcerers". In India, juice from the leaves treated wasp stings. Hawaii it was boiled into a poultice to stop bleeding. In China it was used as an astringent, diuretic and cough remedy. In Central and South America as a cold remedy to ease lung congestion, inflammation and sore throats. And in the Caribbean, an extract from its flowers were used to treat eye irritation and infections. Jamaicans were using it to treat diabetes when researchers discovered the plant was loaded with alkaloids useful in lowering blood pressure, lowering blood sugars, arrest bleeding, and fighting cancer. One simple plant teaching us to protect all things natural and it in turn will protect you.