Sweet violet (viola odorata) Temperament; cold & moist Planet: Venus Chakra: Crown Zodiac sign: Taurus / Libra Parts used: Leaves, flowers, whole herb in bloom. Actions: Anti-inflammatory, stimulating expectorant, diuretic, anti-neoplastic, mild laxative. Constituents: saponins; methyl salicylate; alkaloid odoratine or violin; essential oil; flavonoids (incl. rutin & anthocyanin). Pharmacology: the salicylate and possibly the saponin component too, give the plant its anti-inflammatory action. Saponin also accounts for its expectorant properties. The flavonoids give it its diuretic action and antioxidant qualities. The alkaloid has been implicated as having hypotensive properties, this may also support the claim that the plant is vasodilatory too. Uses: to make a cough more productive, persistent cough, tumours of the lung, breast, throat and intestines, mouth ulcers, headaches associated with lack of sleep. Cools any heat in the body. Doses: 1 – 2 tsp to cup boiling water, infuse covered 15 minutes three times a day. Use cold tea as a gargle for mouth ulcers and sore throats.