Wild Violet – Viola Odorata

Early Spring is the time to harvest wild violets

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.

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