Sweet Violet, also known as Viola odorata Linn, is an evergreen perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, but has also been introduced to North America and Australasia. When making violet oil both the leaves and the flowers are used.
Violet essential oil was popular among the Ancient Greeks and Ancient Egyptians as a remedy against headaches and dizzy spells. The oil was also used as a natural remedy in Europe to soothe respiratory congestions, coughs and sore throats.
Violet leaf oil has a feminine fragrance with a floral note. It has many possible uses both in aromatherapy products and in topical use by mixing it in a carrier oil and applying it to the skin.
Benefits
Helps Respiratory Problems
Studies have proven that Violet essential oil can be beneficial to patients with respiratory problems. One study showed that violet oil in syrup significantly reduced intermittent asthma caused by coughs in children aged between 2-12 years old. You can view the full study here.
It may be Violet’s antiseptic properties that help to relieve the symptoms of viruses. In Ayurvedic and Unani medicine, Violet essential oil is a traditional remedy for whooping cough, the common cold, asthma, fever, sore throats, hoarseness, tonsillitis and respiratory congestions.
To get respiratory relief, you can add a few drops of violet oil to your diffuser or into a bowl of hot water and then inhale the pleasant aroma.
Promotes Better Skin
Violet essential oil is very helpful in treating a number of skin conditions because it is very mild and gentle on the skin, making it a great agent to soothe troubled skin. It can be a natural treatment for various skin conditions such as acne or eczema and its moisturizing properties make it very effective on dry skin.
With its anti-inflammatory properties, it is able to heal any red, irritated or inflamed skin brought about by acne or other skin conditions. Its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties also help to cleanse our skin and remove bacteria from lingering on your skin. Thus, this oil helps to prevent such skin conditions from worsening and spreading to other parts of the face.
Can be Used for Pain Relief
Violet essential oil can be used for pain relief. It was in fact a traditional remedy used in Ancient Greece to treat the pain from headaches and migraines and to curb dizzy spells.
To get pain relief from sore joints or muscles, add a few drops of violet essential oil to your bath water. Alternatively, you can create a massage oil by mixing 4 drops of violet oil and 3 drops of lavender oil with 50g of sweet almond carrier oil and gently massage the affected areas.