The common Johnny-jump-up and sweet or sweet (heartsease) violet are the two violas most commonly used medicinally. A highly nutritive plant, the violet is a common ingredient in most spring tonics. All parts of the plant are used, and the flowers and leaves are expectorant and antiseptic, and the flowers are very mucilaginous. The tincture can be used topically for various skin conditions like tumors, swollen glands, boils and abnormal growths.

Violets are hardy from zone 3 to 5, and prefer dappled shade of woodland, although it will succeed in sunny spots if not left to dry out. The violet is a perennial plant growing 3-6 inches tall, depending on the species. It forms a carpet of growth that makes a good weed-excluding ground cover. The edible leaves can be harvested all year round, and the edible flowers are produced in late winter and early spring.