Heartsease pansies tend to pop up everywhere in cooler shadier areas. They are sometimes treated as a weed and are most often little understood.
They contain Flavonoids (antioxidants), including violanthin, viola quercitrin and rutin (which strengthens capillaries), methyl salicylate (aspirin like action), alkaloids, volatile oils, mucilage gums (which soothe), resin, saponins, vitamins A and C.
Avoid very high doses as Heartsease pansy is mildly laxative.
Historically they have been used medicinally for Capillary fragility which is excellent for people who bruise easily, the heart, Cystitis, polyuria, dysuria, Bronchitis, pertussis, (whopping cough), Rheumatism, gentle metabolism stimulator and cleanser, Eczema, Cradle Cap, skin eruptions and irritations, tuberculosis, seborrheic skin conditions, and more.
Just another amazing little underutilised herb.