Violet

Viola from the family Violaceae

Only sweet violet has been used medicinally.

A tincture of the whole plant is an excellent, soothing expectorant and is used to treat a range of respiratory disorders, such as bronchitis, coughs, whooping cough and head colds. It also has a cooling nature and is used to treat hangovers.

Made into a poultice, the leaves soothe sore, cracked nipples. Also they have a reputation for treating tumours, both benign and cancerous. Strong doses of the rhizome are emetic and purgative.

The flowers have a reputation for being slightly sedative and so helpful in cases of anxiety and insomnia. A syrup of the flowers can be given a teaspoon at a time, and is also said to help with constipation.