Medicinal plant
Heartsease
Viola tricolor
Traditionally for irritated skin, gentle urinary and respiratory support. Also called Johnny-Jump-Up.
A demulcent, soothing to irritated tissues, and long used in folk herbalism as an alterative skin herb for minor complaints. Also traditionally used as a respiratory expectorant.
Properties
Alterative — Traditionally supports gradual cleansing and elimination
Diuretic — Encourages urination and fluid elimination
Expectorant — Helps loosen and move mucus from the lungs and chest
Energetics
Cooling Moistening
Growing and using it
Life cycle
Short-lived perennial, often grown as an annual or biennial.
What to buy
Heartsease / Johnny-jump-up (Viola tricolor) seed, preferably a straight or traditional small-flowered form.
Best way to start
Seed.
Seed starting
Start indoors in cool conditions or direct sow in early spring; seed germinates better when kept dark until sprouting.