Did you know that wild violets have medicinal benefits? You see them growing in early spring. They are tiny but beautiful! Before we make some jelly, lets look at the medicinal benefits.
Just to name a few, they can help treat respiratory problems, help with skin irritations, and help boost the immune system.
Respiratory ailments
- Colds, bronchitis, and sinus infections: The leaves and flowers can be made into teas or tinctures
- Dry hacking cough: A traditional European remedy
- Whooping cough: Often recommended along with marshmallow and licorice
Skin irritations
- Eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions: Can be made into a salve or ointment
- Dry or chafed skin, abrasions, insect bites: Can be used as a poultice, compress, infused oil, or salve
Immune system
- Rich in vitamins A and C and antioxidants: Can help boost the immune system
- Stimulates the lymph: An essential component of the immune system
Other uses
- Headaches: The leaves and flowers contain salicylic acid, which is similar to the pain-relieving component in aspirin
- Gentle laxative: Can help relieve constipation
- Lower cholesterol levels: The leaves contain mucilage, or soluble fiber
Precautions
- Pregnant women and those with kidney or liver problems should avoid wild violet
- Violet roots can be emetic (make you vomit)
When you think of jelly, you probably think of grape jelly, strawberry jelly, or some other type of fruit jelly, right?
Wild violet jelly is an easy homemade flower jelly that will add stunning color to your toasts or biscuits. It is sweet and floral and tastes like fresh berries!
Harvest a couple cups of violets. One batch of this jelly will make 4 half pint jars. Pour boiling water over the violets to make a tea. Make sure to put a lid on it to hold the medicinal benefits. Don’t worry…it will turn a surprising turquoise color. Don’t panic. This is normal.
Once the tea is made, add lemon juice or citric acid. This acid contrasts the sugar and lowers the pH to help with the preservation.
Pectin is also needed. Liquid and powdered pectin does play a role in this so always use the powdered pectin.
The order of operations is very important. Strain the flowers out of the tea after it has steeped. Add ¼ cup lemon juice or 1 teaspoon citric acid and the one box powdered pectin.
Bring to a hard boil in a saucepan for one full minute and then add 4 cups sugar. Return to a boil for one minute and then ladle this into warmed jelly jars. Make sure to leave a ¼ inch headspace.
If you don’t plan to consume all this jelly at once, you can keep this in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks or you can water bath this jelly for 10-15 minutes.
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Stay natural!
~Dr. Amanda P. Cartwright