Violets – not on the face, but in the ground – are probably familiar to most people. Who doesn't recognize their violet flowers and who doesn't love their aromatic scent? But very few people know that these flowers are edible
All types of violets 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 of the forest violet or fragrant violet, for example, have a delicious perfume-like aroma.
Note on the side for those who don't know: The African violet is not a violet, but a representative 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 get plenty of the leaves.
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 areas of use for them. Here are a few ideas:
- candied
- with rice
- in soups and stews
- as a bread topping
- in fruit salad
- as tea
- in sauces
- as a filling for vegetables
Effect on the body
Violets have a broad spectrum of effects in and on the body. Even in earlier times they were known to have a softening, cooling and calming effect. They also have a pain-relieving, antibacterial, circulation-stimulating, hemostatic, laxative and decongestant effect.
The healing effects of violets can be used for the following ailments, among others:
- Headache
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Rheumatism
- Gout
- Abscesses
- Conjunctivitis
- Ulcers
- cough
- Bronchitis
- Hoarseness
- Fever
- Flu
When and how to collect and store?
It is best to collect violas when they are in bloom. Most species bloom between March and June. Either collect just the flowers or cut the flowers along with some of the leaves. The plant parts can be used fresh or dried.
Tips & Tricks
Most people can only eat a few fresh violet flowers because their aroma is so intense. How about drying the flowers and later using them for tea before going to bed, for example?
