Violet Leaf (Viola odorata)

Dried leaves of Viola odorata, Sweet Violet, the small European spring flower whose leaves have long traditional use as a gentle lymphatic tonic and skin-supporting herb. Violet has appeared in European herbalism since ancient Greek and Roman times - Athenian poets called Athens "the violet-crowned city," and the flower was symbolic to the Empress Josephine and Napoleon.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Viola odorata

Family

Violaceae

Common names

Sweet Violet, English Violet, Garden Violet

Native region

Europe and Western Asia

Studied compounds

Mucilage, salicylates (small amounts), saponins, flavonoids

Traditional uses

Gentle lymphatic tonic, skin support, respiratory support, traditional cooling herb

What is Violet Leaf?

Sweet Violet is a small low-growing perennial with heart-shaped leaves and characteristic dark purple-blue spring flowers (some color varieties also produce white or yellow flowers). The plant has a long traditional Western herbal use as a gentle lymphatic tonic - moving and supporting the lymphatic system - and as a skin-supporting herb both internally and externally. The flowers are edible (candied violets are a traditional European confection) and the leaves are also edible as a mild salad green.

How to Use Violet Leaf

Tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves per 8 oz cup in hot water for 10 minutes; strain. The flavor is mild and slightly sweet. Long infusion (the traditional preparation): 1/4 cup of leaves in a quart of just-boiled water; steep 4-8 hours; strain. Combines well with: calendula, cleavers, red clover in traditional lymphatic and skin support formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Violet Leaf used for?
Traditional Western herbal use as a gentle lymphatic tonic and skin-supporting herb.

What is a "lymphatic tonic"?
A traditional Western herbal category for herbs that gently support lymphatic system function. Violet, calendula, cleavers, and red clover are classic examples.

Are violet flowers edible?
Yes; sweet violet flowers are traditionally edible - candied violets are a traditional European confection.

Is the leaf the same as the flower medicinally?
Both have traditional use; the leaf is more commonly used for lymphatic support, while the flower is used for syrup preparations and culinary garnish.

Is Violet Leaf safe daily?
Yes; one of the gentlest daily nourishing tonic herbs.

What does it taste like?
Mild and slightly sweet - gentle and pleasant.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.