Vincamine is an indole alkaloid derived from the Vinca minor plant, and it has been traditionally used in Europe for a variety of cerebrovascular and circulatory conditions. Scientifically, vincamine is primarily known as a vasodilator, meaning it helps widen blood vessels, which can improve blood flow, particularly in the brain. Several clinical studies—mainly from the 1970s and 1980s—have investigated vincamine’s effects on cerebral circulation and its potential to support microcirculation, including within capillaries. These studies suggest that vincamine can enhance oxygen and glucose utilization in brain tissue and may improve symptoms associated with insufficient cerebral blood flow, such as dizziness and memory disturbances.

While much of the research has focused on brain capillaries, the underlying mechanism of action—vasodilation and improved microcirculation—could theoretically benefit capillary health elsewhere in the body. However, robust, large-scale clinical trials specifically targeting systemic capillary health are lacking. The use of vincamine for capillary support is therefore based on both its pharmacological properties and extrapolation from studies in cerebrovascular conditions. Regulatory bodies in some European countries have approved vincamine or its derivatives for cognitive and vascular indications, lending some credence to its use. Nonetheless, the overall quality and quantity of evidence are moderate, and more contemporary, rigorous clinical trials would be necessary to confirm and extend these findings to broader capillary health.