Viola odorata

Viola odorata [Image]. [2014]. Retrieved from: http://fireflyforest.net/firefly/2006/02/23/sweet-violets/

Common name: 
Sweet violet 
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 230).

Latin binomial:
Viola odorata 
 (Hoffman, 1983, p. 230).

Family: 
Violaceae 
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 230).

Parts used:
Leaves and flowers
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 230).

Active constituents:

• Saponins
• Methyl salicylate
• Alkaloids – violine, odoratine
• Flavonoids incl. rutin 
• Mucilage 
• Essential oils 

(Hoffman, 1983, p. 230).

Actions:

• Stimulating expectorant 
• Alterative – lymphatic cleanser 
• Antineoplastic 
• Anti-inflammatory 
• Diuretic

(Hoffman, 1983, p. 230).

 

Indications:

• Pulmonary congestion e.g. Bronchitis 
• Pertussis 
• Swollen lymph glands 
• Specific (BHP) Skin conditions – eczema and skin eruptions with serous (watery) exudate 
• Arthritis
• Traditionally breast, lung and colon cancer 
• Cystitis, polyuria, dysuria

(Hoffman, 1983, p. 230).

Contraindications: 
None known

Cautions:
None known

Dosage:
Liquid Extract 12-25ml 1:2 LE / week 
Dried Herb Equivalent 6-12g (infusion) Syrup – coughs Compress – skin conditions 
(Hoffman, 1983, p. 230).

References: 

Hoffman, D. (1983) The holistic herbal. Element books: Dorset.