Medicinal uses and benefits of violet (Viola spp.)
Violet medicinal uses and benefits – with its soft, delicate petals and sweet fragrance, has been cherished not just for its beauty, but for its incredible healing properties. This humble little plant has a long history in herbal medicine, offering soothing support in teas, salves, and tinctures.
In this article, we’ll explore violet medicinal uses and benefits, from skin care to respiratory support, and how you can incorporate it into your herbal practice.
Scientific Name: Viola spp.
Common Names: Violet, sweet violet/wood violet (Viola odorata), Common dog violet (Viola riviniana)
Violet medicinal uses and benefits
Violet (Viola spp.) has earned its place in herbal medicine due to its wide array of therapeutic uses. Known for its cooling, soothing properties, violet is a versatile herb, helpful for addressing various ailments. Some of violet’s key medicinal benefits include its support for skin health, respiratory health, digestive system, and its use as a mild anti-inflammatory.
An illustration of Viola odorata, sweet violet:
Skin Health and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
One of the most well-known uses of violet in herbal medicine is for skin care. The flowers and leaves contain compounds that make them effective in treating skin irritations, inflammation, and even conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Violet has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin. When used topically, violet can help reduce redness, itching, and swelling, making it an excellent option for anyone dealing with skin inflammation.
The leaves contain salicylates, compounds that are chemically related to aspirin, giving them natural pain-relieving effects that can be beneficial in treating conditions like arthritis and joint pain.
Although the amount of salicylic acid consumed in a violet remedy has been measured to be only one-third of a baby aspirin, the other constituents of violet combine to create a synergistic pain-relieving effect.
How to use violet for skin health:
- Violet-infused oil: Steep dried violet leaves and flowers in a carrier oil (such as olive oil) for several weeks. Use this infused oil to massage into areas of irritation or dryness.
- Violet face mask: Combine violet-infused water or oil with honey for a soothing and hydrating mask that nourishes the skin and reduces inflammation.
Violet’s ability to reduce inflammation makes it a valuable remedy for conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema. Its gentle action on the skin helps restore balance without harsh side effects.
Violet, showing the heart-shaped leaves:
Respiratory Health and Cough Relief
Violet has long been used to support respiratory health, particularly when dealing with coughs, colds, and chest congestion. The herb is known to have expectorant properties, meaning it helps loosen mucus and phlegm, making it easier to expel from the respiratory system. This makes violet an excellent cough remedy, used in cases of bronchitis, colds, and other respiratory infections.
The flowers and leaves contain soothing mucilage, which helps coat and calm the throat, making it particularly helpful in treating dry or sore throats.
How to use violet for respiratory health:
- Violet tea for coughs: Brew fresh or dried violet leaves and flowers in hot water. Add honey and lemon for an extra soothing effect. This tea can be drunk several times a day to help clear mucus and soothe a sore throat.
- Violet syrup: Make a homemade syrup by combining violet flowers with honey, which can be taken in small doses to relieve coughing and ease breathing.
Whether you’re dealing with a seasonal cold or chronic cough, violet’s natural expectorant properties can provide relief and aid in faster recovery.
Digestive Health and Detoxification
Violet also plays a supportive role in digestive health. It is known for its gentle, soothing effects on the digestive system. The leaves and flowers of the violet plant contain mucilage and other beneficial compounds that can help with digestion and cleanse the body of toxins. The roots possess diuretic, expectorant, emollient, and cathartic properties, and should be used in moderation.
Violet has been traditionally used as a mild laxative, helping to regulate bowel movements and relieve constipation. It can also help calm the digestive tract, making it useful for treating conditions like indigestion or bloating.
How to use violet for digestive health:
- Violet tea for digestion: Drink a soothing violet tea after meals to support digestion and help prevent bloating. Simply brew dried violet leaves and flowers in hot water for 10–15 minutes
- Violet flower syrup mixed with almond oil is a gentle laxative for children
Using violet to support digestion and detoxification can also enhance overall gut health.
Watercolour illustration of violets:
Blood Purification and Detox
Violet has been traditionally used to purify the blood, making it an excellent herb for cleansing and detoxifying the body.
In accordance with the Doctrine of Signatures, ancient writers observed a similarity between the nodules found on the roots and runners of violets and those of the lymphatic system.
The herb helps stimulate the lymphatic system and promote the elimination of toxins.
Violet’s gentle moistening action also helps cleanse the liver, the kidneys and the bladder.
Violet’s diuretic properties help stimulate urination, which assists in the removal of excess fluids and waste products from the body.
“(Violet) has an affinity to the lymphatic system, and is indicated where there is lymphatic stagnation and swollen glands, often in the throat and around the ears, in association with dry skin and constipation”
(Matthew Wood, The Earthwise Herbal Volume I).
How to use violet for detox:
- Violet detox tea: Steep a handful of dried violet leaves in hot water and drink it as part of a daily detox routine.
- Violet tincture: Take a few drops of violet tincture daily to support the body’s detoxification process.
If you’re looking to clear toxins from your system and support the natural cleansing processes of your body, violet is a wonderful ally.
Matthew Wood also notes that violet is among the few remedies with a well-established history of use for cancers affecting the breasts, lymphatic system, lungs, and skin. He recommends using a poultice of fresh leaf and flower.
A larger-than-average sweet violet plant, grown in lush conditions:
Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
In addition to its skin and digestive benefits, violet is known for its ability to help reduce pain and inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help ease conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness. Violet has also been used in formulas to relieve headaches, including migraines, and other types of pain.
How to use violet for pain relief:
- Violet-infused oil for pain: Make an infused oil with violet leaves, and massage it into sore joints or muscles to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Violet leaf infusion: use 2 teaspoons per cup of dried leaf. Try combining with other pain-relieving herbs, such as chamomile and ginger.
Whether you suffer from chronic pain or simply need a soothing remedy for a sore back or joint, violet can help ease discomfort and provide gentle relief.
Violet’s Role in Anxiety and Stress Relief
Violet is a gentle, grounding restorative for the nervous system, which inspires a sense of peace and calm. It has an uplifting quality and is considered an herbal exhilarant.
The flowers are considered stronger than the leaves in this regard, as it is the aromatic constituents of the flowers which possess this exhilarant effect.
Flowers with a stronger scent will have more concentrated medicinal benefits, so give your violets a sniff before you make your remedy.
Violet is especially helpful for nervousness and anxiety and is perfect for calming restless children. It is a very gentle sedative, which can even be used to help babies sleep.
How to use violet for anxiety and stress relief:
- Violet tea for relaxation: A warm cup of violet flower tea can help calm the nerves and promote relaxation. Drink it before bedtime for a restful night’s sleep.
- Violet flower essence: Flower essences are a gentle, non-invasive way to use violet to support emotional well-being. Simply take a few drops of violet flower essence during stressful times.
- Violet glycerite: Glycerine captures the aromatic constituents of the flowers. Alcohol tinctures will not capture the aromatics, and therefore shouldn’t be used for anxiety and stress relief.
Violet’s ability to soothe, ground and uplift the mind and body makes it an excellent herb for times of emotional turmoil, such as during periods of grief, stress, or anxiety.
For an extra comforting blend, try pairing violet with rose or chamomile.
Violet Constituents
Violets (Viola species) contain several key compounds that contribute to their medicinal properties:
- Anthocyanins – Powerful antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Saponins – Natural compounds with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects.
- Flavonoids – Plant compounds that support heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Salicylic acid – Known for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, often used in treating headaches and muscle pain.
- Mucilage – Soothing and moisturising compound that supports respiratory health.
- Vitamins C and A – Vital for immune support, skin health, and overall well-being.
- Calcium and Magnesium – Minerals that support bone health, muscle function, and relaxation.
Viola canina, heath dog violet:
Culinary Uses
Violet flowers are not only medicinal but can also be used in a variety of culinary applications, adding both flavor and nutritional value.
Violet Infusions and Teas
The flowers can be infused in hot or cold water for several hours or overnight to make a soothing infusion.
Use freshly boiled water and steep for ten minutes for violet tea.
Why not combine other herbs like chamomile for relaxation or lemon balm for digestive support?
Violet Syrup
Violet flowers can be used to make a fragrant syrup that can be added to drinks, desserts, or even used as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
The syrup is a beautiful violet colour, but can be turned pink by the addition of an acidic pH ingredient such as lemon. You can also make a gorgeous emerald green syrup by using hard water.
Violet Garnishes:
Fresh violet flowers make a beautiful and aromatic garnish for salads, cakes, and desserts. Candied violet flowers will transform any dessert into a gourmet dish.
Violet Jelly:
Boil violets with sugar to make a delicate, aromatic jelly.
Blue violet flower:
Foraging Notes
Violet flowers are a delightful find in the wild, and they can be foraged with care and respect for nature.
Habitat:
Violets thrive in wooded areas, meadows, and grassy fields, often growing near streams or in shaded spots.
When to Harvest:
The flowers bloom in early spring, but the leaves can be gathered year round, though they are most tender and flavourful in the spring and early summer when the plant is actively growing.
In winter, violet leaves may still be collected, especially in milder climates, but they might be tougher and less flavourful due to colder temperatures.
Key Identifiers:
Violets have heart-shaped leaves and beautiful purple, blue, or white flowers.
The flowers feature five petals, with the bottom petal being larger and acting as a landing platform for pollinators such as bees.
They often have a sweet “parma violet” scent that is distinctive and easy to recognise. If you find a big patch in spring, the smell might be the first thing you notice.
Violet leaves have a slightly salty, nutty taste, and a mucilaginous feel between the fingers or in the mouth when crushed.
Safety Notes:
Always ensure you are foraging in areas free from pesticides or pollutants.
It is suggested to rinse flowers and leaves before consuming them uncooked in salads.
The roots and seeds contain a substance which can cause vomiting, and are not recommended for internal use.
Violets should not be consumed internally by those will a salicylic acid (aspirin) allergy
Sustainability:
Check whether violets are common in your area before harvesting the flowers, as they are an important early nectar source for bees
Viola riviniana:
Gardening Tips
Violets are hardy and low-maintenance, making them perfect for adding a touch of colour and beauty to any space in the spring.
These charming little flowers thrive in cool, partially shaded areas with moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged, as violets don’t like drying out completely. They will tolerate full sun if the soil is wet enough.
If you wish to grow violets in a container, Alys Fowler in “A Modern Herbal” suggests the use of an “alpine pan”, a wide, shallow pot for alpine flowers, which will give it space to spread horizontally.
Violet seeds should be sown in the autumn as they require the cold of winter to disrupt the dormancy of the seed. They can be sown direct or in modules and planted out in the spring.
Classification
Taxonomy:
Violets belong to the genus Viola. The Viola genus is part of the larger family called Violaceae, which includes not only violets but also pansies, hybrids of violets.
Etymology:
The name “Viola” comes from the Latin word for “violet,” thought to be derived from the Greek word “ion,” meaning violet flower.
Fun Facts
- In ancient Greece, the violet was considered a symbol of modesty and loyalty, and it was used in wedding bouquets as a token of faithfulness
- Some species of violets, such as Viola odorata, are particularly prized for their strong and pleasant scent, which is used in perfumes
- There are over 500 species of violets, and they can be found all over the world, from temperate regions to subtropical climates. Some species are even found growing in the wild in the Arctic!
- The gardener’s favourite, pansies (Viola tricolor, also known as “heartsease”) have gained popularity for external use against eczema, and have many of the same properties as their wild cousins
- Violet leaf tincture has been used to break down warts (source: The Forager’s Almanac, Danielle Gallacher)
- “The Romans believed that violets prevented drunkenness, so they used the flowers to make a sort of homeopathic wine, no doubt in the hope that they would be able to get merry without suffering any consequences.” (The Hedgerow Handbook, Adele Nozedar)
- According to legend, you can only smell violet flowers once, because they steal your ability to smell! Ionine, a key component of the sweet violet’s fragrance, temporarily dulls the scent receptors after being inhaled, diminishing the scent.
- “When the seed is set in June it is often spread by ants, who are fond of the sticky, fleshy structure of the seed, known as an elaiosome, and will carry them for some distance, The seed can remain dormant in the soil for some years waiting for the right conditions, which is why they seemingly spring up out of nowhere in slightly neglected, mossy lawns.” (“A Modern Herbal”, Alys Fowler)
Viola reichenbachiana:
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References
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-212/sweet-violet
https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/violet-flower-benefits.html
Over to You
Have you foraged for violets before? I’d love to hear about your experiences.
Do you have any questions about violets?
No question is too big or too small 😊
