The Violet Flower: Its Properties, Qualities and Uses

Spring is Violet time! These hardy little beauties pop up everywhere in yards and parks as well as in the woods and countryside!

Besides being a delight to the senses (purple being my favorite color and they look like happy, little smiling faces to me) the common wild Violet is a nutritional and medicinal powerhouse. There are dozens of species of Violet, in various colors that include blue, purple, white, and yellow.

Species of Violets

Luckily, all species are edible and have similar medicinal value, so you don't have to worry about knowing out exactly which one you've got. Violet leaves and flowers are loaded with minerals and vitamins, especially A and C. The leaves are tasty both raw and cooked.

There are eighteen species of Violet listed on the Minnesota Wildflowers website. The ones I see most commonly around the Twin Cities are Canadian White Violet, Downy Yellow Violet, Common Blue Violet. Common Blue Violet is the species I use to make Violet Syrup. It’s also the species that you probably see all over your yard and in any wild, semi-wild or un-sprayed green space. It is very opportunistic and good at finding little spaces in which to grow. That’s good news for us, foragers.

Uses & Qualities

Violets have a long history of use in food, perfumery, and herbal medicine. All parts of the Violet have and continue to be used. I make both tincture and infused oil from the leaves and I also make Violet Syrup, it is purple...and gorgeous!

Medicinally, violet is a gentle but potent remedy. It is classified as an alterative (or "blood purifier"), which means it helps the body restore optimal functioning by aiding metabolic processes, especially the elimination of waste products. Violet stimulates the lymphatic glands, helping the body get rid of bacteria and other toxins. It is especially useful for swollen glands. Over time, violet can help clear stubborn problems like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Taking Violet after a long winter is a wonderful way to get our bodies ready for a healthy and energetic spring.

Violet also supports the immune system, helping to clear infections of all kinds. Soothing and cooling, it helps reduce fever and inflammation. It can be useful in treating sinus infections, bronchitis, sore throats and coughs.

Violet leaves historically has even been used to help to shrink tumors and cancers. They are most effective when taken both internally and used externally as a poultice. They are also helpful in clearing up other growths and lumps such as cysts, mastitis, and fibrocystic breasts.

Next time you are out walking, why not take a few moments to gather some wild Violets? You will be adding beauty to your life, and getting a dose of a potent cleansing remedy at the same time!