Botanical Overview
Viola odorata, commonly known as Sweet violet, English violet, or Common violet, belongs to the Violaceae family. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The primary parts used medicinally are the flower, leaf, and herb.
Energetics
This plant is traditionally considered cooling and moistening with bitter and sweet tastes. It exhibits relaxing tonicity and acts mainly through descending directionality affecting the qi and fluid in the body.
Primary Actions
- Expectorant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Demulcent
- Diuretic
- Mild laxative
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Skin inflammations and eczema
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Rheumatic pain
- Urinary troubles
Syndromes
- Respiratory catarrh
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Mild urinary tract infections
- Inflammatory skin conditions
TCM
- Cough
- Phlegm
- Headache
Syndromes
- Wind-heat
- Lung heat
Ayurveda
- Respiratory congestion
- Headache
- Skin disorders
Syndromes
- Kapha disorders
- Vata disorders
Unani
- Cough
- Skin eruptions
- Sore throat
Syndromes
- Humid phlegmatic conditions
Constituents & Mechanisms
Viola odorata contains mucilage, flavonoids, salicylic acid derivatives, saponins, and volatile oils, contributing to its demulcent, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-5 g dried herb, 2-3 times daily
- Syrup prepared from flowers for cough relief
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% alcohol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used traditionally. Caution is advised during pregnancy due to limited data. Potential additive effects with sedatives exist.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Venus
Elemental ruler: Air
Selected References
- Viola odorata – PFAF
- European Medicines Agency, HMPC monograph
- Grieve, M. A Modern Herbal
- Hoffmann, D. Medical Herbalism
- The Planetary Herbal by C. Miller