Native to Europe but naturalized throughout North America, Viola tricolor is an annual that grows along grasslands, forests floors, and other partially shaded environments. Occasionally referred to as wild pansy or heartsease, violets have a host of folklore surrounding them and were once an ingredient of love potions. For centuries, violet leaves have been used in traditional folk practices for their healthful properties. Violet leaf can be tinctured, used in bath and body creations, steeped as violet tea, or blended into nutritional vinegars and herbal formulations.

The European or sweet violet is cultivated for its beautiful and fragrant flowers that are also used in perfumes, flavorings, and herbal medicines. Violets have been used in traditional folk medicine for thousands of years. The Greeks considered the violet a symbol of fertility and love and were known to add it to any love potion that they made. The young leaves and flower buds can be eaten raw or cooked. They make a very good salad, and a tea made from the flower or leaves is equally as tasty. Heartease also goes by the common names European wild pansy, Jonny-jump-up, and wild violet. It is a member of the Violaceae family.

Precautions
No known precautions. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.