VALERIAN Valerian officinalis, L. 1— General 2— Flower 3— Seed pod( Naukova Dumka, Kiev, USSR, 1964)
VIOLET Viola odorata, L.( N. O.: Violaceae)
Features: The Violets have a large family tree of some 400 species, predominantly perennial herbs but with a few annuals. Violets are found in damp woods and other shady places and are among the best-known wild plants, with characteristically scented and coloured flowers. They are highly adapted to cross-pollination by insects. Some species are indigenous to North America, however V, odorata is native to Europe but has been naturalized in the United States. Violet leaves contain certain glucosidal principles of distant antiseptic properties and the flowers are expectorant and have been used for generations in syrup form for coughs, colds, etc. Medicinal Parts: Leaves and flowers. Solvent: Boiling water. Bodily influence: Antiseptic, Expectorant. Uses: Violets are mostly thought of as decorative, or in memory of a tender occasion. Their admirable qualities as a herb are never realized by the“ out of touch with nature” modern society.
Violet has been recommended and used with benefit to allay pain in cancerous growths, some even say“ to cure cancer”. In 1902,“ Potters New Cyclopaedia”, page 313, claims that Lady Margaret Marsham, of Maidstone, was cured from cancer of the throat by infusion of Violet leaves. The following are extracted from the publication:“ In a week the external hard swelling had gone, and in a fortnight the cancer on the tonsil had disappeared.”“ Pour a pint of boiling water over a handful of fresh Violet leaves and let stand for 2 hours. Strain, when required, apply to the affected part and cover with a piece of oilskin, change when dry or cold.”
The influence of the dissolving properties seem to have intricate inward skill, reaching places only the blood and lymphatic fluids penetrate. For difficulty in breathing when conditions are caused from a morbid accumulation of material in the stomach and bowels causing gas, distention and pressure, Violet tea taken daily for some time will make you feel that the beauty of the plant is of secondary importance. It is cooling to any high temperature of the body, internally or externally. Of service in headaches and heat to the head; a specific for ear disturbances, having a soothing and healing effect on inflamed mucal surfaces. Colds, sore throat, inflammation of lungs, hoarseness, whooping cough, etc., of children and adults is greatly controlled by a handful of dried or fresh violet leaves and flowers in ½ pint of water, steeped for ½ hr., administer 2 – 3 tablespoonfuls( more for adults) every 2 – 3 hr., and a mouthful to gargle( make sure the bowels eliminate properly).