Heartsease

Viola tricolor

Violaceae

Names: Wild Pansy.

Habitat: A common British wild and garden plant.

Part Used: Herb.

Constituents:

• Flavonoids, including violanthin, rutin, violaquercitrin.

• Methylsalicylate

• Miscellaneous; mucilage gums, resin, saponin.
  

Indications: Traditionally used for bronchitis and rheumatism, Heartsease is especially valued remedy for treating skin disease. Used both internally and topically it is good for eczema, psoriasis and acne. It is also helpful in cases of cradlecap in babies. The herb is employed in treating frequent and painful urination in conditions such as cystitis. Both the salicylates and the rutin contained in the plant are anti-inflammatory, a partial explanation of the traditional use herbalist’s found for Heartsease, treating and arthritis. The saponins in the plant account for its expectorant action while its mucilage content soothes the chest. Heartsease is used to treat a range of respiratory disorders such as bronchitis and whooping cough. Due to the high concentration of rutin in the flowers, this herb may be employed to prevent bruising and broken capillaries, to check the build up of fluid in the tissues and to reduce atherosclerosis and in so doing help reduce blood pressure. Heartsease is mildly laxative.

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto l teaspoonful of the dried herb and leave to infuse for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: 1-2 ml of the tincture 3 times a day.