Baldwins Heartsease Herb ( Viola tricolor )

Viola tricolor [herba]

Origin: EU

Heartsease is also known as 'Wild Pansy', and it has other names like: Johnny Jump Up and Tickle-my-fancy, playful nicknames moreso. The name: Heartsease, derives from the meaning of "to soothe (/to ease) the heart", therefore linking it to love and emotional healing.

The flowers of the Viola variety can be used to decorate salads and adorn on desserts.

Heartsease has mucilage, which is beneficial towards soothing irritated tissue of the respiratory system. Respectively, the herb is an expectorant that helps with chesty coughs, encouraging the loosening (thanks to the mucilage) and the release of phlegm. The spasmodic reflex that comes with persistent or even convulsive coughing is eased. This herb is suited for children with respiratory imbalances due to Heartsease's gentle effect.

Particularly used in chronic inflammatory skin ailments, such as eczema and acne. Heartsease supports the elimination of metabolic waste through the skin, whilst reducing inflammation and irritation. This herb is just as good used internally, as externally due to its vulnerary (wound healing) and depurative (blood cleansing) herbal actions. It has been used for cradle cap and any other inflammatory skin imbalances that has an eruptive expression.

In addressing the blood, Heartsease correspondingly also supports the heart. This is influenced by the flavonoid: 'rutin' that works with integrity of capillaries and encouraging healthy vascular tone. Therefore, this helps with ailments such as easy bruising and poor circulation.

A mild diuretic that enhances the excretion of waste via the kidneys, supporting the detoxification process.

Although, not at the forefront of its qualities, Heartsease can gently ease restlessness and anxiety in children.

P.S. ***If pregnant/ nursing, or there are health imbalances that require attention, it is always wise to consult a qualified herbal practitioner... even before trying a new remedy.