After the crocuses have passed, violet blossoms are among some of the first blooms to appear in this region in early Spring. It has been said that they "bloom out of sheer exuberance”, and I can feel that presence this time of year. I’ve noticed them peaking out from sheltered spots over the past number of weeks and showing up in patches throughout areas of my lawn. Some species bloom a bit earlier than others, so keep on the look out for them over the coming weeks. These blooms are not true flowers. The real flowers bloom later in the season, and appear under the leaves, which then bear the seeds.
There are many species of violet and most are edible and of benefit medicinally. Keep in mind that there are over 30 species of violet growing in North America that are threatened or endangered, so make sure the ones you harvest are not on this list. In Ontario, the only species I could find listed as endangered is Bird’s Foot Violet. While many species of violet grow abundantly in the wild, harvest only in areas of abundance. Never over harvest and don’t pull up roots, in order to ensure the violets continue to grow and flourish. As always, be sure to triple check plant identity. Don’t confuse these violets with African violets which are poisonous.
Both the Spring blossoms and leaves are used medicinally. They are moist, nutritive and cooling with mild alterative effects. I like to harvest and dry the leaves and flowers in early Spring to use throughout the year in my tea blends, where their gentle nutritive qualities are welcomed
Violets are said to be a symbol of humility, steadfastness and loyalty. As a flower essence they are helpful for refined, sensitive people who tend to be reserved and shy. Soothing and cooling, they bring comfort. With their heart shaped leaves, they can help ease grief and heartache and calm angry heated states
The flowers and leaves can help cool angry skin conditions such as eczema. Being alterative, they have a special affinity to the skin, spleen and lymphatic tissues, including the breasts. They have traditionally been used for swellings, cysts and cancer. Their flowers make a lovely oil that can be used topically on the breasts for regular self care, as well as over areas of lymphatic swelling or stagnation in general.
These alterative actions, together with an overall anti-inflammatory effect make violets helpful useful in conditions of gout, arthritis and rheumatism.
Their cooling and moistening effects make them useful in lung conditions characterized by heat and dryness such as soothing irritated coughs and bronchitis. They also cool the heat associated with bladder irritation and inflammation.
The leaves and flowers can be tinctured fresh, made into an oil or dried for teas. The fresh flowers are sometimes candied, and they also make a beautiful syrup.