Violets

Wild violets are native to North America.

They grow best in moist, fertile, cool and shady areas, but they grow in abundance as ground cover on sunny hillsides and fields, as well.

Classified as weeds they are considered very hard to control.

They are perennial, and have a very dense root system that can be hard to eradicate by pulling.

Violets grow where most grass will not.

The flowers are edible.

The blossoms are generally deep purple, but lighter shades and white variations are also frequent, and various tints may sometimes be discovered in different plants growing on the same bank.

Violets are said to represent faithfulness and devotion.

The violet is among the many herbs that were considered powerful against 'wykked sperytis.' Macer's Herbal (10th Century)

Violet was also used as a remedy for insomnia:
'For they that may not sleep for sickness steep this herb in water and at even let him soak well his feet in the water to the ankles, when he goeth to bed, bind of this herb to his temples. Askham's Herbal

Syrup of Violets was used for epilepsy, inflammation of the eyes, sleeplessness, pleurisy and jaundice.

The parts used medicinally are the dried flowers and whole plant fresh.

The flowers have a slight laxative effect and the leaves are an old popular remedy for bruises.

Preparations of fresh violet leaves have been used both internally and externally in the treatment of cancer. It is believed that violet leaves can allay the pain in cancerous growths, especially in the throat.

An infusion of the leaves in boiling water (1 in 5) has been administered in doses of 1 to 2 fluid ounces.

A syrup of the petals and a liquid extract of the fresh leaves are also used, the extract is taken in teaspoonful doses, or rubbed in, locally.

The seeds have been used as a purgative and diuretic and in cases of urinary complaints.

The chief use of the violet today is as a coloring agent and perfume.

Recipe:
Violet Salad
For pizzazz and color, simply add a few blossoms to a tossed salad. They go very well with endive.