Pansy: what it is and how it is grown

The Pansy is a very common plant not only in Europe. It has a stem that can sometimes reach 34 cm in length. The plant has very ancient origins: for reference, William Shakespeare already used it in one of his tragedies.

Already in ancient times the plant was used by witches, since it was thought that it could have magical powers capable of healing diseases and war wounds. Over time, the pansy was used more and more; in England in the 1700s, in fact, the plant was used to prepare excellent infusions, perfect for English tea time.

Pansies are still widely used today to decorate flower boxes on balconies. The plant has a flower with wide petals and different colors, ranging from yellow, purple, white, and red. The cultivation of the pansy is very simple: the plant does not need particular types of soil to survive, but it is preferable to use soil mixed with sand.

The pansy can be grown at different times over the year and the plant's exposure to the sun varies depending on the season in which it is sown, for example if it is planted in autumn it needs bright and airy places.

Beneficial properties of pansy and its contraindications

In addition to being a flower highly appreciated for its beauty, pansy is also used extensively for its beneficial and soothing properties.

Pansy is mainly used to create creams and ointments, very useful for treating dermatological problems. When used as a cream, the flower is used to treat eczema and particular skin irritations due to allergies, sweat or external agents. For this to take effect it is necessary that it be spread several times a day directly on the situation or skin problem, in order to relieve itching, redness and swelling. Furthermore, the plant can also be used as an infusion or decoction to treat bronchial and respiratory problems.

The plant has particular calming properties and is also used in the medical field to treat cystitis or other infections of the urinary tract. It is therefore a real natural cure-all for the complete organism. Pansy is also used for its diuretic properties, to combat constipation and abdominal bloating.

If you are subject to hypersensitivity it is advisable to avoid using the pansy to relieve any type of disorder.

If the plant is used to create decoctions and herbal teas, it is advisable not to take more than necessary to avoid side effects such as dysentery.

Pansy: what it represent

Whenever we talk about feelings, the first flower that comes to mind is definitely the pansy. This particular flower is also mentioned in some legends such as that of Demeter and Persephone.

The myth tells the story of Persephone, that is forced to divide her life six months in the Hades and six months on earth, taking fertility away with her. As soon as she returned to earth, Persephone is said to have brought back the joy and fruitfulness of nature and the first flower that was born from her was a pansy.

Some consider this flower as the symbol of lovers and of love understood as a light and pure feeling, capable of erasing all pain and suffering. According to others, pansy would be a symbol for a family union, that is solid and unbreakable. A delicate flower full of meanings, which has been accompanying everyone's life for a very long time with its beautiful colors and its unique therapeutic properties.