The magical violet

The common wild violet. I’m sure most of you have seen this beautiful, delicate flower in your yards. Some call it a ‘weed’ but I would beg to differ. There are many uses for the wild violet. I’ve included a few ways I incorporate it in the spring while they are scattered throughout my yard and woods by my creek.

here are just a few benefits of this ‘weed’ + how to use it in your daily life:

•rich in vitamins A + E

•help stimulate lympathatic glands to rid toxins from the body

•strengthens your immune system

•reduce inflamation

•antiseptic properties

•leaves + flowers are edible. Add to salads, smoothies, wild pesto, sautéed greens, soups, etc. dry the leaves to use in a spice mixture.

•infuse in oils for a soothing salve

•make a tea with the leaves

•make violet syrup or vinegar

•candy them for your desserts

To make this infused water I simply added a few flowers to a pitcher water with blueberries + strawberries for a refreshing drink.

I love to make my own face toner. When the violets are plentiful I harvest enough for a small mason jar and too with witch hazel. I put it in the dehydrator for 24 hours to extract their medicinal properties but you could also put in a sunny window for a sun infusion too.

how do you use wild violets? Let me know in the comments!