Hildegard von Bingen’s violet salve is a well-known recipe from the monastery tradition. It’s valued as a skin care remedy and is one of the most famous preparations from Hildegard’s legacy. Even in the Middle Ages, Hildegard described using violets externally. Today, violet salve is making a comeback as a gentle, natural skin care option.
Violet Salve in Hildegard’s Teachings
The salve is based on sweet violet (Viola odorata), which Hildegard paid special attention to in her writings. In the monastery tradition, violet salve is valued as:
- nourishing for the skin
- moisturizing
- gentle and mild
- a traditional recipe from Hildegard
Hildegard especially described violets in connection with caring for both body and soul—a holistic approach that still fascinates many people today. The blend of a gentle scent and nourishing properties makes violet salve a special recipe from the monastery tradition.
How to Use Violet Salve
Violet salve can be used in many ways for skin care.
Popular uses:
- Care for dry or stressed skin
- Care for sensitive or irritated skin
- As a mindful skin care ritual
- As a soothing night treatment: Apply a small amount to your skin
Note: Always massage the salve in gently and use it regularly—ideally in the morning and evening.
The Original Violet Salve Recipe by Hildegard
In her writings, Hildegard describes a salve recipe that combines fresh violets with pure fat—for external use.
Ingredients:
- 2 handfuls of fresh sweet violets (flowers and leaves)
- 250 ml pure lard or coconut oil (modern substitute)
- Optional: 1 tsp beeswax for a firmer texture
Preparation:
- Slowly heat the fat until it’s liquid
- Let the fresh violets infuse at a low temperature for about 15–20 minutes
- Strain through a cloth, pour into sterile jars, and let cool
- Store in a cool, dark place—keeps for about 3–4 months
Buying Violet Salve – Quality According to Hildegard’s Tradition
If you can’t make the salve yourself, you can choose from high-quality ready-made products. When buying, look for:
- Original recipe based on Hildegard von Bingen
- Use of real sweet violet extract
- Certified natural cosmetic ingredients
- Free from synthetic fragrances and preservatives
Recommended products:
- Violet Cream after Hildegard von Bingen (original recipe)
- Violet Skin Oil – nourishing and gentle
- Violet Leaves with Flowers – for making your own
Experiences with Violet Salve
Many people report:
- a pleasant skin feel
- well-cared-for, soft skin
- a lovely scent
- a mindful skin care ritual in everyday life
Violet salve is often used as part of a mindful skin care routine—gentle and soothing.
Conclusion: Violet Salve – A Recipe with Tradition
Violet salve after Hildegard von Bingen is one of the most famous recipes from the monastery tradition. It combines natural skin care with centuries-old wisdom. Whether as a daily ritual or a mindful break—violet salve is a classic in Hildegard’s teachings. Discover our full Hildegard Cosmetics Collection and our entire range inspired by Hildegard’s teachings.
