Violets

Despite its rather inconspicuous appearance, the violet has already inspired numerous poets to praise it. Hildegard of Bingen, as a medieval herbalist, also had high hopes for its effects as a medicinal plant.

 

The plant genus violet (Viola) includes about 650 species, most of which are native to the temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere. In warmer regions, violets are more commonly found at higher altitudes. The modesty often associated with violets is also evident in their choice of location. Moderately moist but never dry, rich in humus, and not too exposed to the sun – this is how the flowers prefer the soil. In the garden, they like to grow in the shade of other plants. Wild violets thrive in shady meadows, at forest edges, as well as on fences and hedges.

 

Due to its essential oil, various vitamins, and minerals, the violet is interesting not only for its beauty. The plants contain saponins, bitter substances, eugenol, flavonoids, glycosides, and salicylic acid as important ingredients.

 

As an early bloomer, violets announce the arrival of spring and are beautiful to look at in the garden. But they also have a lot to offer in the kitchen: with their sweet aroma, they can enhance mainly desserts but also savory dishes like soups and salads. The edible flowers also make a beautiful decoration. Additionally, they can be processed into syrup, flower vinegar, or fruit juice. Candied violets are a special delicacy.

According to Greek and Roman mythology, the god Vulcan was able to win a kiss from the goddess of love, Venus, with the scent of violets. Because of their intoxicating fragrance, violet flowers are also popular in the perfume industry. However, not all flowers emit a scent.

The valuable ingredients of the violet made it well-known even in antiquity. Hippocrates recommended it for headaches, vision problems, and melancholy. Today, natural medicine mainly uses its mucolytic effect and values it as a remedy for coughs and respiratory problems. Sweat-inducing and relaxing effects are also sometimes attributed to the violet, so it can be used both for colds with fever and as a mild sleep aid.

For internal and external use, violet tea is recommended. As a compress or bath, violet tea is also said to relieve skin problems. Its effect on the skin is also evident in the Violet Cream Hildegard von Bingen.

 

Violets are biennial herbaceous plants that occasionally grow into semi-shrubs. During the flowering period, which lasts from March to May, they show themselves in their full splendor. Depending on the species, violets bloom in yellow, red, and often in blue and violet. Some species also turn whitish or brownish to black.