Blue Violet Leaf and Herb Profile
Also known as
Viola odorata, Banafshah, Garden Violet, Neelapushpa, Neelapuspha, Sweet Violet Herb, English Violet, Violeta, Sweet Violet Root, Violae Odoratae Rhizoma, Herba, Violet.
Introduction
The European or sweet violet is cultivated for its beautiful and fragrant flowers that are also used in perfumes, flavorings, and herbal medicines. Blue violets have been used in traditional folk medicine for thousands of years, usually as a headache remedy or natural pain reliever. Pliny the Elder suggested that a garland of violets could prevent headaches and dizziness. The Greeks considered the violet a symbol of fertility and love, and were know n to add it to any love potion that they made. The young leaves and flower buds can be eaten raw or cooked. They make a very good salad, and a tea made from the flower or leaves is equally as tasty.
Constituents
Alpha-ionone, beta-ionone, beta-sitosterol, eugenol, ferulic acid, kaempferol, malic acid, methyl salicylate, palmitic acid, quercetin, rutin, scopoletin, vanillin.
Parts Used
Leaf and flowers
Typical Preparations
The dried leaf is traditionally used as a tea, and the fresh leaf and flower is traditionally used in salads, soups, jellies and jams, as well as other food preparations. May also be taken as a liquid herbal extract.
Summary
The whole plant is anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, and laxative. It is taken internally in the treatment of bronchitis, respiratory catarrh, coughs, and asthma. Externally, it is typically used to treat mouth and throat infections. The plant can either be used fresh, or dried, and some reports suggest the dried material is much stronger in regards to its laxative qualities. The flowers are demulcent and emollient and are used in the treatment of biliousness and lung troubles. The petals are made into a syrup and used in the treatment of infantile disorders.
Precautions
Taking excessive amounts may cause nausea and vomiting
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
