Violet

Apr 21

VIOLET

Scientific name: Viola sp

Family: Violaceae

This year, my yard has been full of violets. I also found them when I walked in the woods. There are many species of violets. The blue varieties are the most common ones, but I found a yellow one this year. Viola odorata is a native of Europe but has been naturalized in the United States.

People use leaves and flowers as herbal remedies. The roots contain a substance that causes vomiting. So only the aerial parts are used in herbalism.

Smooth Yellow Violet/ Viola eriocarpa/ VIOLACEAE — Smooth Yellow Violet/ *Viola eriocarpa/ VIOLACEAE*

Therapeutic properties: demulcent, lymphatic.

Energetics: Cooling and moistening

Uses:

This delicate flower is mild and has no harmful properties. Boiling water is poured over leaves or flowers to obtain the healing properties.

Violet leaves are high in vitamins A and C and can be used in salads or cook as greens. The flower can be made in syrup, jelly, and candy. I have a friend who makes violet butter for Easter!

Violets help to relieve congestion in the lymphatic system. It is commonly used for congestion of the glands around the ear and in the throat. It is helpful in the respiratory systems, soothing and healing a sore throat, hoarseness, whooping cough, asthma, etc. It is used when the mucosa is dry.

As a moistening remedy, it helps the kidney, the bladder, and the skin. It is good for urinary infections and lumps on the breast. It helps with constipation as well. A poultice can also be made to apply in the skin to treat the above imbalances.

Violet has been used widely in cancer involving the breast, lymphatics, and lungs.

Don't mow your yard early in the spring and collect as much as you can of this plant. They smell so good! The beauty of this plant can be transmitted to your body. Violet can help you and your family more than you think.

Have a Happy Spring!