Violaceae
Violet Herb
Viola tricolor
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Europe, Western Asia
Also known as: Wild Pansy, Heartsease, Love-in-idleness, Johnny-jump-up
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Parts Used
Aerial parts
Therapeutic Uses
Respiratory catarrh (expectorant saponins), skin conditions (eczema, cradle cap — topical and internal), urinary complaints, mild fever, skin inflammation.
Herbal Actions
Expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antieczemtic (topical), diaphoretic
Active Constituents
Flavonoids (violanin, rutin, quercetin), saponins (violine — expectorant), mucilage, salicylates, carotenoids (viola xanthin)
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea🏺 Tincture🧴 Salve/Balm
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 2 tsp dried herb per 250ml, steep 10 min, 3x daily |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 25% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Excellent children's herb for eczema (cradle cap). Combine with cleavers for skin conditions. Topical: cool tea compress for inflamed skin. Pleasant mild flavor — good for children. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid large doses in pregnancy (saponins). Very safe at therapeutic doses.
Side Effects: GI upset at high doses (saponins). Very well tolerated generally.