The benefits and use of Violet (Viola)

Violet is cooling and moistening. It brings calming and soothing relief, especially to dry and tense tissues. Violet supports the lymphatic system, and helps it flow. It is revered for being able to break down hardened cysts, especially chronic ones. It is commonly used as a topical aid for fibrocystic breasts or other cysts below the skin's surface.

Violet is one of our best remedies for dry, inflamed and hot skin. Several historic texts mention violet for cancer. There have been some interesting in-vitro studies robust cytotoxicity that may be promising chemo-sensitizing agents against drug resistant breast cancer.

Violet quells dry coughs, relieves dry inflammation. It also soothes the nervous system and is great aid with insomnia. It heals sore throats and swollen lymph glands.

Preparations:

-cream

-food

-oil

-poultice

-salve

-syrup

-tea

-tincture

-vinegar

Violet leaves are high in vitamin C as well as containing vitamin A and various minerals and saponins. Has significant antioxidant activity.

Violet vinegar:

1 cup fresh violet flowers

up to 2 cups champagne vinegar or white vinegar

1. Put the violets in a jar. Pour in enough vinegar to fill the jar and submerge flowers completely.

2.Cover the jar with a lid.

3. Let the jar sit in a room temperature, out of direct sun light for 1-2 weeks, shaking it daily. The longer you let it infuse, the stronger the flavour.

4. Strain the vinegar into a jar. Store in refrigerator up to one year.

Violet oxymel:

When you combine violet vinegar with honey, you get an oxymel that can be sipped by the spoonful to soothe dry cough. Or mix it with sparkling water, or use in cocktails.

1/2 cup violet vinegar

1/2 cup honey

Stores up to one year in the fridge.