Johnny jump up FREE IMAGE

Today, violets were figments of our imagination. We find self-seeding violas such as these Johnny jump-ups all over the garden, in and outside of the growing beds. They are mucilaginous, or slightly slimy with thickening agents, which helps reduce internal dryness, relieve itchy skin, and reduce constipation. The dark blue compounds offer protection against UV rays. Violas are high in vitamin C. They’re an alterative, which is an old word for a tonic that helps all systems and organs. Use the flowers and leaves only. The flowers are anti-inflammatory. delicious to eat, and effective as a salve. Make the beautiful flowers into colorful syrup, toss them fresh into salads, and freeze them into ice cubes for beautiful cocktails. (free image)