Violet

Violet is the common name of Viola odorata species, from Violaceae family.

Also known as: sweet violet, english violet, common violet.

Features of Violet

Height to 6 inches. Spread to 12 inches. Zone 6-9. Perennial.

light-brown, round seed.

heart-shaped leaf.

scented, white and purple flower in spring.

Growing Violet

Roses are red, violets are blue.

The more down-to-earth violet may have played second fiddle to her more flamboyant partner, but this vibrant flower has been well-loved for thousands of years.

Greek word for violet is Io, one of the lovers of Zeus.

Violets have long been cultivated for their perfume and unmistakable blue hue.

The edible flower makes a great decoration for salads and other dishes, and may also be used to flavour and colour baked goods.

Using Violet

Cosmetic

Perfume
Its essential oil is used in perfumes.

Rinse
boil, let cool, and use as a mouthwash. (Use flower)

Steam
An addition to a facial steam. (Use leaf)

Culinary

Dessert
Eat fresh or decorate desserts like ice-creams and cakes. (Use flower)

Salad
Eat fresh in salads. (Use flower)

Sauce
Make into syrup, jams, and vinegars. (Use flower)

Household

Fragrance
Add into potpourri. (Use flower)

Medicinal

Essential oil
Use in aromatherapy. May be helpful for high blood pressure and heart problems.

First-aid
Use in a poultice and apply externally to skin inflammations, ulcers, and bruises. (Use leaf, flower)

Tea
A floral tea calms the nerves. Helpful for insomnia and headaches. (Use flower)

Tea
A tea for coughs, bronchitis, and cold symptoms. (Use leaf, flower)

Traditional Remedies

• Respiratory » cough, bronchitis
• Digestive » constipation
• Mood » insomnia, tension, anxiety
• Disorder » headache
• Other » hangover

Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.

Cautions

• Please consult with your doctor before using violet for health related purposes.

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