10 Medicinal Constituents Of Viola Odorata (Sweet Violet)

Viola odorata has active constituents such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and fragrances that possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

These constituents can help alleviate skin irritations, reduce fever, and soothe digestive issues. The fragrances in Viola odorata can also promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, improving sleep quality and overall well-being.

These medicinal properties can be beneficial for individuals suffering from skin conditions, insomnia, and digestive problems.

This article explains in details the 10 best active constituents of Viola odorata.

1. Isoviolatin

Viola odorata isoviolatin is a bioactive compound extracted from the leaves and flowers of the plant.

It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Isovioletin has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi, making it a potential natural remedy for wound healing and skin infections.

Additionally, it exhibits potent antioxidant activity, which may help protect against oxidative stress and cell damage.

2. Violaxanthin

Viola odorata violaxanthin is a naturally occurring xanthophyll pigment found in its flowers.

It belongs to the group of carotenoids and is responsible for the blue-green coloration of the plant's petals.

Violas contain various pigments including chlorophyll a and b, but violaxanthin is one of the most abundant and significant components that contributes to their distinctive color and fragrance.

3. Violagalactone

Viola odorata violagalactone is a unique and rare compound isolated from the flowers of this perennial plant.

It is a lactone-derived fragrance molecule that has been found to have significant effects on human behavior and physiology.

Viogalactone has been shown to elicit a rapid increase in relaxation responses, reducing stress levels and promoting feelings of calmness and serenity.

4. Anthocyanins

Viola odorata anthocyanins is a type of flavonoid compound found in its flowers.

These water-soluble pigments are responsible for the purple color of the plant and have been shown to possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Anthocyanins in Viola odorata have been investigated for their potential health benefits, including protecting against oxidative stress, improving cardiovascular health, and exhibiting antimicrobial activities.

5. Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol)

Viola odorata flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) is a type of bioactive compound found in the plant's flowers and leaves.

These flavonoids have been shown to exhibit numerous health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Quercetin has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, while kaempferol has been found to possess neuroprotective effects and may help reduce the risk of certain cancers.

6. Betulinic acid

Viola odorata betulinic acid is a bioactive compound extracted from its roots.

This compound has been found to exhibit potent anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a promising natural therapy for various diseases.

Betulinic acid has shown significant inhibitory effects on the growth of cancer cells, including leukemia and lung cancer, as well as reducing inflammation in various tissues and organs.

7. Oleanolic acid

Viola odorata oleanolic acid is a bioactive compound found in the roots of this plant species.

It has been traditionally used in folk medicine for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Oleanolic acid has been shown to possess various biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects.

Its potential applications include the development of new treatments for diseases such as atherosclerosis and cancer.

8. Ursolic acid

Viola odorata ursolic acid is a bioactive compound derived from the plant.

It has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ursolic acid has been shown to exhibit cytotoxic activity against various cancer cell lines, making it a promising candidate for the development of new anticancer therapies.

Additionally, it may also have immunomodulatory effects, making it a potential agent in the treatment of immune-related disorders.

9. Gallic acid

Viola odorata gallic acid is a phenolic compound found in its leaves and flowers.

It has been extensively studied for its potential medicinal properties, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Gallic acid from Viola odorata has also shown promise in inhibiting the growth of certain cancer cell lines and exhibiting neuroprotective effects.

Its unique chemical structure makes it a valuable component in traditional Chinese medicine and modern pharmacology research.

10. Protocatechuic acid

Viola odorata protocatechuic acid is a flavonoid compound extracted from the plant.

It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Additionally, it has been found to have antiviral activity against certain viruses and bacteria, making it a promising agent for the treatment of various infectious diseases.