VIOLA ODORATA

“Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.”

Mark Twain

Viola odorata is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the genus Viola. This flower originates from Asia and Europe but it was also spread to Australia and North America. The other names of the plant include Banafsa, wood violet, sweet violet and common violet. Viola odorata can grow up to 4-6 inches in height. The leaves are heart-shaped and dark green. Both the flowers and leaves grow in a basal rosette. The aromatic flowers can be dark purple or white. The fruit is represented by a unicellular capsule which contains many seeds. The plant propagates via stolons or seeds. Violets usually grow in shadowy lawns, meadows, along sidewalks or near the edges of forests.

Interesting Facts

• The Ancient Greeks regarded viola odorata as a symbol of love and fertility. They used it  as part of meals. Moreover, violet was a symbol of Athens.
• Violet was Napoleon’s favourite flower.
• There are about 500 different species of violets in the world.
• Violet is a state flower of Illinois.
• The aroma of violet flowers is very peculiar and elusive. It is often utilized in the production of perfumes.

Parts Used: leaves, flowers, roots, fruits

Chemical Components

• Vitamin С
• Minerals (calcium, sodium, aluminium, iron, silicon, magnesium)
• Alkaloids
• Tannins
• Flavonoids
• Saponins
• Glycosides
• Terpenes
• Steroids

Methods of Use

• Culinary use (mainly leaves)
• Tea
• Essential oil
• Cosmetics
• Perfumes
• Powder
• Tinctures and extracts

Violet Tea Recipe

What you need:

• One and a half cup of water
• 2 tsp of dried violet leaves
• 1 tsp of dried violet flowers

Bring the water to a boil. Pour the boiling water over the dried violet leaves and flowers. Infuse the mixture for about 10 minutes. Your beneficial drink is ready!