What to know about Viola tricolor (pansy) before using it medicinally

Viola tricolor, commonly known as pansy, is a medicinal herb prized for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties, which contribute to its potential in improving digestive health and immune function.

This herb is also valued in horticultural settings for its versatility, as it can be grown in containers, beds, and borders, and requires minimal maintenance to thrive. Botanically, Viola tricolor belongs to the Violaceae family, characterized by its distinctive heart-shaped leaves and delicate, four-petaled flowers that come in a variety of colors.

The herb has a rich history, with references to its use dating back to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, who used it for its medicinal properties, and the Europeans, who cultivated it for its ornamental value.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Viola tricolor.

What are the medicinal properties of Viola tricolor?

Viola tricolor helps with inflammation, wounds, and skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Its extracts have been used to treat eczema, acne, and other dermatological issues.

The active constituents responsible for its medicinal properties are flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory activities. These compounds interact with biological systems to produce therapeutic effects.

The leaves, stems, and roots of the plant are the most commonly used parts for medicinal purposes. Infusions, decoctions, and ointments prepared from these parts are used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and respiratory problems.

Improper use of Viola tricolor may cause allergic reactions, such as skin irritation, itching, and redness, in sensitive individuals. It may also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, and exacerbate underlying medical conditions.

When using Viola tricolor medicinally, precautions include pregnant or breastfeeding women avoiding its use, as it may stimulate the uterus and cause abortion. Additionally, individuals with bleeding disorders or taking anticoagulant medications should consult a healthcare professional before using the plant.

What are the horticulural aspects of Viola tricolor?

Viola tricolor grow best in partial shade to full sun with temperatures between 10-20°C. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0 and requires regular watering, especially during the first growing season.

Planting tips for Viola tricolor involve sowing seeds 1-2 cm deep in the soil, spaced 10-15 cm apart. Sow at the beginning of spring or late summer to early fall, and keep the soil moist during germination. Avoid over-handling the delicate seeds and seedlings.

For optimal harvest, Viola tricolor flowers are best picked in the morning when they are fully open. Use scissors to snip the stem just above the node, and avoid pulling the flower off the stem, which can damage the plant. Harvest individual flowers or entire stems, depending on the desired use.

Common pests of Viola tricolor include aphids, slugs, and snails, while common diseases include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Regular monitoring and removal of affected areas can help prevent the spread of these issues, and using resistant cultivars may also be effective.

What are the botanical aspects of Viola tricolor?

Viola tricolor is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the genus Viola. It has heart-shaped leaves, 2-5 cm long, with smooth margins and petioles 2-3 cm long. The leaves are green on top and glaucous underneath.

Viola tricolor is classified in the family Violaceae, order Ericales, class Magnoliopsida, division Magnoliophyta, and kingdom Plantae. The genus Viola includes about 500 species, with Viola tricolor being one of the most widespread and variable species.

Several variants of Viola tricolor exist, including 'Hokusai', 'Sorbet', and 'Panisse', which differ in flower color and markings. 'Hokusai' has blue flowers with white and yellow markings, while 'Sorbet' has white flowers with yellow and purple markings.

Viola tricolor is native to Europe and Western Asia, but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in many parts of the world. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and along roadsides.

The life cycle of Viola tricolor begins with seed germination in spring. The plant grows vegetatively, producing new leaves and flowers, and eventually produces seed pods in late summer. The seeds mature and are dispersed in fall, completing the life cycle.

What are the historical aspects of Viola tricolor?

Viola tricolor is an ancient plant with a long history of uses. In medieval Europe, it was used as a treatment for fever, rheumatism, and various skin conditions. Herbalists used its leaves and flowers to create medicinal remedies. In some regions, it was also used as a food ingredient.

In Greek mythology, the pansy was associated with the nymph Chloris, who was the first to be transformed into a flower by the god Zephyr. According to legend, the pansy's colors symbolized the transformation. Chloris' name was later used to describe the color green. The mythological associations with the pansy may have contributed to its popularity.

The pansy has been imbued with various symbolic meanings across cultures. In 16th-century Europe, it represented modesty and humility. In the Victorian era, it was associated with thoughts of the deceased. In some cultures, it symbolizes the arrival of spring. The pansy's symbolic meanings vary depending on the context in which it is used.

Historical texts, such as the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder's works, describe the pansy's properties and uses. The Greek physician Hippocrates also mentioned the plant in his writings. The German herbalist Leonhart Fuchs described the pansy's medicinal properties in his 1542 book "De historia stirpium".

Archaeological findings have revealed the pansy's presence in ancient civilizations. In the 19th century, a collection of herbal remedies from ancient Rome was discovered. The collection included pansy extracts used to treat various ailments. Additionally, the remains of pansy seeds have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, indicating its use in burial rituals.