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Pansy – How does it Work?

8 November 2008
Written by: steve Posted under Herbal Medicines

Taxonomic class

Violaceae

Common Trade Names

None known.

Common Forms

Available as an extract.

Source

Active components are obtained from the flowers of Viola tricolor.

Chemical Components

The stems and leaves contain flavonoids, salicylate derivatives, terpenes and triterpenes, carbohydrate derivatives, sterines, a polysaccharide, and magnesium tartrate. Vitamin F and other fatty acids have also been detected . Other compounds include violanthin, rutin, violaquercitrin, resin, saponin, gums, and mucilage.

Actions

Physiologic mechanisms of action are poorly described. Salicylates may be responsible for anti-inflammatory properties because of prostaglandin inhibition. Although not a major component of pansy, rutin has been shown to exert many pharmacologic effects, the most well known of which is its ability to affect capillary permeability. Herbs with high levels of rutin were thought to be useful for bleeding events. Other effects of rutin include inhibition of angiotensin II and prostaglandin E2.

Reported Uses

This agent is claimed to be useful in treating bronchitis, rheumatism, skin cancer, and whooping cough. One Hungarian study indicates its possible use in preventing heart spasms and as an anti-inflammatory .

Dosage

Dosage is 2 to 4 ml of tincture or tea P.O. t.i.d.

Adverse Reactions

GI: cathartic effects (seeds), diarrhea.

Interactions

Salicylates: Effects may be additive. Use cautiously.

Contraindications and Precautions

Avoid using pansy in pregnant or breast-feeding patients; effects are unKnown.

special Considerations

Monitor the patient for diarrhea.

Advise women to avoid using pansy during pregnancy or when breast- feeding.

Inform the patient that no clinical data support the use of this herb or any medical condition.

Commentary

Without clinical data supporting the use of pansy for medical purposes, it cannot be recommended.


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