Violets - not on the face, but on the ground - are well known to most people. Who doesn't recognize their violet flowers and who doesn't love their aromatic scent? But few people know that these flowers are edible…

Violets are a delicious, beautiful decoration and also very healthy

All violet species are edible

You can eat all types of violets without hesitation. They are not poisonous, but extremely tasty. The leaves taste pleasantly mild. The flowers, for example, of forest violets or sweet violets have a delicious, perfume-like aroma.

As a side note for those who don't know: The African violet is not a member of the violet family, but a member of the Gesneria family. This plant is poisonous and should not be consumed!

Violet leaves and violet flowers in the kitchen

You can use the leaves of violets for salads such as mixed wild herb salads or leaf salads, for smoothies and green juices. They also taste extremely pleasant on their own. Since there are no harmful ingredients, you can hit the leaves in plenty.

But it is above all the flowers that are often used in the kitchen. They are often used as a garnish for dishes. But there are also other uses for them. Here are a few ideas:

  • candied
  • to rice
  • in soups and stews
  • as a topping
  • in the fruit salad
  • as tea
  • in sauces
  • as a filling for vegetables

power on the body

Violets have a wide range of effects in and on the body. Already in earlier times they were known to have a softening, cooling and calming effect. They also have an analgesic, antibacterial, circulation-enhancing, haemostatic, laxative and decongestant effect.

The healing properties of violets can be used for the following ailments, among others:

  • a headache
  • problems falling asleep
  • rheumatism
  • gout
  • abscesses
  • conjunctivitis
  • ulcers
  • to cough
  • bronchitis
  • hoarseness
  • fever
  • flu

When and how to collect and store?

It is best to collect Viola when it is in bloom. Most species flower between March and June. Either collect only the flowers or cut off the flowers and some leaves. The plant parts can be used fresh or dried.

tips and tricks

Most people can only eat a few fresh violet flowers because their aroma is so intense. So how about drying the flowers and using them later, for example for tea before going to bed in the evening?

Category:

Indoor plants