Common Violet
Viola odorata
Viola odorata, commonly known as violet or sweet violet, is a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented in any specific medical traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that V. odorata exhibits moderate antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, with a zone of inhibition of 11 ± 1.25 mm. Additionally, an herbal formulation using V. odorata was found to be as effective as nitrofurantoin in treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), without causing adverse effects and reportedly enhancing health-related quality of life. The study also provides insights into the plant's genetic makeup, revealing a genome sequence with 34,902 protein-coding genes, which includes information on programmed cell death in the endosperm associated with successful germination. Safety concerns are minimal, with no major issues recorded, and there is currently no evidence of significant drug interactions involving V. odorata.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that programmed cell death in the endosperm is associated with successful germination in Viola spp., particularly in V. × wittrockiana.
- The study presents a genome sequence of Viola odorata, including 10 chromosomal pseudomolecules and 34,902 protein-coding genes.
- Viola odorata showed moderate activity against multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae with a zone of inhibition of 11 ± 1.25 mm.
- The herbal formulation was as effective as nitrofurantoin in treating bacterial urinary tract infections without adverse effects.
Frequently asked questions
What is Common Violet?
Common Violet (Viola odorata) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Common Violet?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Common Violet; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The study found that programmed cell death in the endosperm is associated with successful germination in Viola spp., particularly in V. × wittrockiana.
How strong is the evidence for Common Violet?
The strongest finding for Common Violet carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Common Violet safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Common Violet in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Common Violet interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Common Violet in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Common Violet?
Common Violet is also known as: Фиалка душистая, Violette odorante.
Is Common Violet a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 A Randomized Comparative Study of Luteolin-Based Herbal Unani Formulations versus Nitrofurantoin in Women with Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Pharmacological evaluation of selected medicinal plant extracts against multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae: implications for inflammation-associated respiratory infections. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The genome sequence of the sweet violet, Viola odorata L. (Malpighiales: Violaceae). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Programmed Cell Death in the Endosperm Is a Hallmark of Seed Germination in Viola. literature abstract metadata