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Viola, or wild pansy (Viola tricolor), has traditionally been used as a topical home remedy for skin conditions like eczema and acne.1-2 Also known as Heartsease, viola is an annual or non-hardy perennial herb native to Europe and Asia.2-3 In Ayurvedic terms viola is a blood-cleanser herb.1
The dried aerial parts of the viola are used in natural medicine preparations. They contain a number of beneficial polyphenols, including salicylic acid—a known antimicrobial used in many homeopathic and commercial acne treatment products.1,4 Lab experiments have confirmed that viola extract exerts antimicrobial activity against gram positive and negative bacteria.4
Safety
There are no known adverse side effects are drug interactions with viola extracts. However, since there is insufficient safety information available pregnant or nursing women should avoid using viola.2,4
How to Use
Steep 1.5 grams of dried herb to ? cup of boiling-hot water for 5-10 minutes and strain to make an herbal tea (up to 3 servings a day).2
Topically, prepare a decoction by soaking four grams of dried herb in boiling-hot water for 10 minutes. Use the liquid to make compresses to apply several times a day.3-4
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