Violet
Viola odorata
Other Names: Ordinary violet, Common blue violet, Sweet violet, Garden violet
Habitat: (Viola odorata) A European perennial they are now naturalized throughout North
America, and can be found growing in most any soil or situation. Cultivation: easily
cultivated through root cuttings or seeds. With over 900 species, plant identification to
the exact is an expertise in itself. However all have practically the same medicinal and
edible herb values. The heart shaped leaves often with scalloped or slightly serrated
edges are dark green, smooth or sometimes downy underneath, and grow in a rosette at the
base of the plant. Roots are creeping and send out stolons or runners. Depending on soil
and light the flowers may be from deep purple or blue to pinkish or even yellow whitish.
All have 5 petals, which may have a yellow (fur) or beard on the inside of two of the
petals, blooming from March to June. Gather flowers in full bloom, leaves anytime, and
rootstock in fall. Dry root for later use.
Properties: Medicinal and edible, the flowers and leaves of viola are made into a syrup
used in alternative medicine mainly for respiratory ailments associated with congestion,
coughing, and sore throat. Flowers are also edible and used as food additives for instance
in salad, made into jelly, and candied for decoration. Large doses of the root contain an
alkaloid called violine which is emetic (causing vomiting). A decoction made from the root
(dry herb) is used as a laxative. Tea made from the entire plant is used to treat
digestive disorders and new research has detected the presence of a glycoside of salicylic
acid (natural aspirin) which substantiates its use for centuries as a medicinal remedy for
headache, body pains and as a sedative. The plants constituents are being studied and show
these uses to be valid. Eugenol, Ferulic-acid, Kaempferol, Quercetin, Scopoletin, also
show promise in the treatment of many kinds of cancer, arthritis, AIDS, gum disease and
more. Used externally the fresh crushed leaves reduce swelling and soothe irritations. As
a bath additive the fresh crushed flowers are soothing to the skin and the aroma is very
relaxing.
CLICK
HERE TO FIND MANY VIOLET PRODUCTS!
Folklore: The Ancient Greeks considered the Violet a symbol of fertility and love, they
used it in love potions. Pliny recommended that a garland of them be worn about the head
to ward off headaches and dizzy spells.
TRY THESE RECIPES
 Crystallized
Violets: 1 egg white, ½ cup finely granulated sugar, tweezers, small
soft paint brush
Beat the egg white until it is slightly foamy. Put some finely
granulated sugar in a small bowl. Dip the violets in the egg white and then in the sugar.
If the violets are folding together, hold them with tweezers or use a small soft brush to
apply the egg white. You might even find sprinkling with sugar works better than dipping.
Be sure both sides (front and back of petals) are well-coated with both the egg white and
sugar.
Lay the petals on a sheet of paper to dry. When they are stiff, store in
a tightly covered container in a cool, dry place.
Syrup: Pore 1 pint of boiling water over 8 oz. 1 cup packed, of fresh
crushed flowers and leaves cover and let stand for 12 hours. Strain and squeeze through
cloth, add 2 lb. of sugar and boil for 1 hour or until syrupy. Store in glass jar. Give 1
tbs. -1 tsp. for children 2 or 3 times a day.
Tea: Steep ¼ cup dried or fresh herb in 1 cup of water for 10 min. stain, flavor to
taste. Take in ½ cup doses twice a day. |
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