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Viola tricolor (Violaceae)

Botanical Information

Family: Violaceae
Common Names: Heartsease, Wild Pansy, Johnny Jump-Up, Love-in-Idleness
Parts Used: Aerial parts (Leaves, Flowers, Stems)

Description

Viola tricolor, commonly known as Heartsease or Wild Pansy, is a small flowering herb native to Europe and Western Asia and naturalized in North America. It is traditionally used as a soothing, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying herb, particularly for skin conditions, respiratory health, and urinary support. Heartsease has been widely valued in European folk medicine and is still used today for eczema, acne, and childhood skin ailments like cradle cap. It is also known for its lymphatic cleansing and expectorant properties, making it useful for bronchitis and chronic coughs.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European folk medicine as a blood purifier, supporting skin health and lymphatic drainage.
  • Traditionally applied as a poultice for eczema, psoriasis, and wounds.
  • Historically consumed as a tea for chest congestion, coughs, and mild respiratory ailments.
  • Used in children’s medicine for cradle cap, diaper rash, and teething irritability.
  • Associated with love and heart healing in medieval folklore, leading to its name “Heartsease.”

Constituents

  • Mucilage
  • Flavonoids (Rutin, Quercetin)
  • Salicylic acid (Natural anti-inflammatory)
  • Saponins
  • Coumarins
  • Tannins

Actions

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Expectorant
  • Lymphatic tonic
  • Mild Diuretic
  • Demulcent
  • Anti-itch & Skin-soothing

Medicinal Uses

  1. Skin Conditions & Eczema Relief
    • Used internally and externally for eczema, acne, psoriasis, and cradle cap.
    • Applied as a wash or poultice to soothe itching, redness, and irritation.
    • Traditionally included in blood-cleansing teas for chronic skin conditions.
  2. Respiratory Support & Expectorant Effects
    • Helps loosen mucus and clear lung congestion in bronchitis, colds, and chronic coughs.
    • Traditionally used for whooping cough and asthma.
    • Often combined with mullein or thyme for lung health.
  3. Lymphatic & Detoxifying Support
    • Supports lymphatic drainage and may help reduce swollen glands and sluggish circulation.
    • Traditionally used in spring cleanses to detoxify the body.
  4. Urinary Tract & Kidney Health
    • Acts as a gentle diuretic, helping reduce water retention and support kidney function.
    • Used in mild urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder irritation.
  5. Anti-Inflammatory & Pain Relief
    • Contains natural salicylates, which provide mild pain-relieving effects for headaches, joint pain, and muscle soreness.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Aerial Parts):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried herb per cup of hot water.
  • Steep for 10-15 minutes, drink up to three times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice or Wash (For Skin Conditions):

  • Prepare a strong infusion, soak a cloth, and apply to eczema, wounds, or irritated skin.

Bath Soak (For Skin & Lymphatic Support):

  • Add 2-3 handfuls of dried herb to a warm bath for eczema, cradle cap, and skin inflammation relief.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Considered safe in moderate food and tea amounts, but consult a professional for therapeutic doses.
  • Aspirin Sensitivity: Contains salicylates, so individuals allergic to aspirin should use caution.
  • Mild Laxative Effect: In large doses, may cause mild digestive upset.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports lung function, skin health, and lymphatic cleansing.
European Folk Medicine: Used for skin eruptions, blood purification, and lung congestion.
Ayurvedic Medicine: Considered cooling and balancing for Pitta dosha, beneficial for inflammation and skin irritation.

Combinations

  • For Eczema & Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.
  • For Respiratory Health & Coughs: Use with mullein and marshmallow root.
  • For Lymphatic & Detox Support: Blend with cleavers and red clover.
  • For Urinary Tract Health: Pair with cornsilk and uva-ursi.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting:
    • Aerial parts are gathered in spring and early summer, just before full bloom.
  • Drying:
    • Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area to preserve volatile oils and flavonoids.
  • Storage:
    • Keep in an airtight container, away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

  • Studies confirm Viola tricolor’s anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, supporting its traditional use for lung and respiratory conditions.
  • Research suggests its flavonoids and salicylic acid contribute to its skin-healing and pain-relieving effects.
  • Clinical trials indicate potential benefits for eczema, psoriasis, and mild urinary tract inflammation.

Conclusion

Viola tricolor (Heartsease) is a gentle yet effective herb traditionally used for skin healing, respiratory support, and lymphatic cleansing. It is cooling and soothing, making it an ideal remedy for eczema, lung congestion, and urinary health. Due to its natural salicylates, individuals with aspirin allergies should use caution.