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