Discover what Mother Nature has to offer

Tip: Wild Violet (Viola Odorata)

Wild Violet is the first herb "two herbal mamas" harvest in the spring.  Although there are many varieties of violets such as pansy, heart's ease, three colour violet, jump up and wild pansy, it is the wild violet found in cool areas on the forest floor that we are referring to.  The arial parts of the plants are harvested-leaves and flowers.  Be sure to read our Herbalist Golden Rules before you begin to harvest these precious plants.

Violet has many beneficial properties and actions.  This herb contains saponins, salicylates, alkaloids, flavonoides and volatile oils.  The actions of this shy plant are anti-inflammatory, expectorant, diuretic, anti-rheumatic, laxative and stabilizes capillary membranes.  Violet contains an enormous amount of Vitamin A.  Chew on a violet leaf and spit it out on to your hand.  Give the leaf a good rub.  You will feel the slippery mucilage contained in this powerful plant.  Mucilaginous herbs are moist, and soothe skin ailments and internal mucous surfaces.

Recipe: Wild Violets (Viola Odorata)

Include violet leaves and flowers in your spring salads to aid digestion.  Steep 2 cups of leaves and flowers in one litre of boiling water overnight and drink the next day.  This infusion will ease a nagging cough and soothe internal mucous surfaces. 

Apply chopped leaves mixed with honey to boils and acne.

Drink two or more cups of leaf infusion to ease monthly breast swelling and fibrocystic complaints.  Use violet poultices in addition if there is pain or swelling in breast tissue.

Violet is a really COOL plant.  Drink it to cool you down and reduce fevers.

As you harvest, be sure to thank Miss Violet for all her help.

Happy Spring!