As I walk through the woods in late April, I can see the small heart-shaped leaves blanketing the forest floor with a variety of colored petals. Steeped in folklore, history, and childhood memories; this delicate flower produces many emotions. It was once called “Hearts ease” for its soothing quality in releasing anger while comforting and strengthening the heart. Steeped in water, oil, or alcohol; this herb produces multiple medicinal benefits as well! The Violet has a folk tradition of protecting against evil spirits, as a symbol of eternal love, of calming tempers, as a good luck charm, and as a remedy for tension headaches. This is not a popular herb in commerce, but it is popular amongst the herbalists who have experience with it.
There are many species of Violets, and they all have very similar properties. The most popular species used medicinally are the Sweet violet (Viola odorata) and the Pansy ( Viola tricolor). Other species include Birdfoot violet (V. pedata), Downy Yellow Violet (V.pubescens), Roundleaf Yellow Violet (V. rotundifolia), and Common Blue Violet (V. sororia). These are perennial, low-growing groundcovers that spread easily by their rhizomes that you can find naturalized throughout North America. Be sure to check if the species you have found is at-risk, or close to being endangered. Not all of them can be harvested. The Violet prefers some dappled shade, but can endure full sun and adapt to the surroundings very well. There are some slight differences amongst the Violas in the shape of the leaves, colors and shapes of the petals, and some species grow their leaves directly from the rhizome. Most of the wild Viola species do not have an odor to the petals. Sweet violet and pansy are two species that do have a slight fragrance. This is where the violet fragrance used in the perfume industry comes from. The blooming period is between March and early May, but the plant does not produce seed until autumn in cleistogamous flowers (self-pollinating flower that does not open). Both the leaves and the flowers are quite edible and have been used throughout the centuries in many recipes for jellies, butters, flavored vinegars, embellished desserts, and drinks.
Viola pubescens
Violets can be used for a multitude of ailments. They are considered anti-inflammatory, lymphatic, expectorant, aperient (slight laxative action), diuretic, demulcent (soothing internally), emollient (soothing externally), and as a relaxing nervine. The roots and seeds are strongly purgative and are not recommended for use in herbal preparations. The leaves and flowers are used either fresh or dried. This tiny herb will work hard for you as a respiratory aid, on internal or external inflammations, on a sore throat, on a headache, with eczema (or other skin diseases), on constipation (even children), and many nervous issues. It is highly antioxidant, strengthens blood capillaries, helps to chelate metals (such as iron), and can inhibit some cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions. I personally make a flower essence from the blue violet to help sweeten an angry disposition, help the individual focus on the now, and help lift the spirit. I also use the white violet flower essence to bring harmony to the worrier, and help the individual find the joys and blessings in their daily lives.
Water is the best extraction process used with this herb. To make an infusion with fresh leaves, it is best to perform a cold infusion by letting the leaves steep in cold water overnight and then strain in the morning. Drink this up to 3 cups a day. You can also make a juice of the herb (to be used externally or internally) by grinding the leaves and flowers and place them in a cloth to express the juice. Add a small amount of alcohol (1/3 the amount of juice) to preserve this. This preparation can be taken by adding 20 – 30 drops in a small amount of water up to 3 times a day. You can also make a fomentation using the infusion by dipping a cotton cloth in it, and placing it while hot on the affected area. This works well for swollen glands, or skin diseases. I personally like to make a soothing oil or salve for rashes or inflammations. The only precaution with Violets is that it can be emetic in large doses taken internally. Do not confuse the Viola species with African Violets!! They are not the same species and are not edible!
Enjoy your walks in nature and try to notice the delicate flowers blooming near the ground whether they are blue, yellow, violet, or white. You now have a new look on this tiny Spring-time friend. I hope you can enjoy their medicinal attributes; as well as, their beauty.