Viola odorata Violaceae

The violet has long been used as a remedy for coughs, especially bronchitis and catarrh in the upper respiratory tract. It is also very beneficial for skin conditions like eczema and for the long-term treatment of rheumatism. A more recent discovery has been its anti-cancer properties and it definitely has a future role to play in a holistic treatment of this difficult disease.

An infusion of violet leaves acts as a diuretic, an expectorant and an anti-inflammatory, and works to gradually restore healthy normal functioning and vitality. To make it, add a teaspoon of sweet violet to a cup of boiling water and let it infuse for ten minutes or so. Drink a cupful three times a day. Use the flowers for coughs, bronchitis, headaches, insomnia and for soothing tension; the leaves or root for catarrh and bronchitis.