Violet (Viola sylvestris)



Family

  • Violaceae

Constituents

  • Mucilages
  • Saponins
  • Alkaloids (violin, odoratin)
  • Wax
  • Sugars
  • Traces of acetylsalicylic acid, malic acid, ionone, vitamin C, methyl salicylate, and mineral salts

Parts used

  • Whole plant

Properties

  • Expectorant
  • Diuretic
  • Sudorific
  • Emetic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Emollient
  • Soothing

Side effects

In high doses, violet root causes vomiting.

Contraindications

-

Forms of use

  • Infusion - fresh flowers - softening (bronchitis): one tablespoon of violet per cup of boiling water. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Take 1 cup 3 to 5 times a day between meals.
  • Syrup - against cough: boil 100 g of fresh flowers in 1 liter of water and let infuse for 12 hours (overnight). The next day, filter and add 1.8 kg of sugar. Cook over low heat until a syrup is formed. Take 1 to 3 tablespoons a day.
  • Decoction: 5 to 10 g of finely chopped roots to 300 ml of water. Boil for 10 minutes and leave to infuse. Drink during the day.
  • The leaves of the violet can be eaten in salads. They are very rich in vitamin C and mineral salts.