Evidence supporting the use of: Heartsease
For the health condition: Skin Care (general)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Heartsease (Viola tricolor), also known as wild pansy, has a long history of traditional use in European herbal medicine for various skin conditions, including eczema, acne, and cradle cap. The aerial parts of the plant have been used in infusions, decoctions, and topical applications. The rationale for its use historically comes from its content of flavonoids, saponins, and salicylic acid derivatives, which were believed to exert anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on irritated skin. Herbal texts from the 16th to 19th centuries often mention Heartsease as a remedy for skin eruptions and chronic skin problems, especially in children.

Modern scientific studies on Heartsease for general skin care are limited, but some in vitro and animal studies suggest anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and thus the evidence remains largely anecdotal and traditional. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) acknowledges its traditional use for minor skin conditions but does not endorse it based on scientific evidence. Therefore, while Heartsease is still found in some herbal skin care preparations, its use is justified primarily by historical practice rather than strong scientific validation.

More about Heartsease
More about Skin Care (general)

Products containing Heartsease

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.