Thegreensplash | The Green Splash

Violet Cough Drops – Sweet Herbal Relieffor Sore Throats

by Thegreensplash | Sep 19, 2025 | Herbal remedies

Violet Cough Drops – Sweet Herbal Relief
for Sore Throats

Introduction

In early spring, the forest floor comes alive with delicate purple blossoms of violet (Viola
odorata). While admired for their fragrance and beauty, these humble flowers — along with
their tender leaves — also hold gentle medicinal power. In traditional herbalism, violet has
long been valued for soothing sore throats, calming dry coughs, and supporting the
respiratory system during seasonal changes.
Today, we’ll explore the herbal wisdom of violet and show you how to turn these blossoms
into homemade cough drops. Sweet, fragrant, and naturally healing, they are a comforting
way to care for yourself and your family.

Botanical and Cultural Notes
Violets (Viola odorata) are native to Europe and Western Asia but have spread widely across
gardens and woodlands. Known as “sweet violet,” the plant has been cherished since
antiquity:
– In Greek mythology, violets were a symbol of love and protection.
– In Victorian England, candied violets were a popular delicacy.
– In folk medicine, both flowers and leaves were used as gentle remedies for coughs,
sore throats, and chest discomfort.

Herbal Properties of Violet
Modern herbal knowledge highlights the bioactive compounds present in violet:
-Mucilage — soothing and coating the throat, reducing irritation.
-Anti-inflammatory effects — calming inflamed tissues.
-Expectorant action — helping clear mucus from the respiratory tract.
-Mild analgesic — easing soreness and discomfort.
When combined with ginger, clove, honey, and lemon, violet cough drops become a
powerful blend to support respiratory health.

DIY Recipe: Violet Cough Drops
Ingredients
– 225 ml sugar
– 125 ml strong infusion of violet flowers and leaves (Viola odorata)
– ½ tsp ground ginger
– ½ tsp ground clove

– 2 tbsp honey
– Juice of ½ lemon

Preparation
1. Make the infusion: Brew violet flowers and leaves in hot water for 10–15 minutes to
create a concentrated tea. Strain well.
2. Cook the mixture: In a saucepan, combine sugar and the violet infusion. Heat gently
until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the herbs: Stir in ginger, clove, honey, and lemon juice. Continue cooking until
the mixture thickens.
Tip: You can test the readiness without a thermometer by dropping a little
syrup into cold water — if it hardens quickly, it’s ready.

4. Shape the drops: Spoon small circles of the hot mixture onto a silicone mat or
parchment paper.
5. Cool and coat: Allow them to harden, then dust with cornstarch or potato starch to
prevent sticking.
6. Store: Keep in a glass jar in a cool, dry place.

Use
Slowly dissolve a cough drop in your mouth whenever your throat feels sore, dry, or irritated.

Closing Thoughts
These homemade violet cough drops capture the forest’s sweetness while offering natural
support for coughs and sore throats. Simple to make and free of synthetic ingredients, they
combine tradition, flavor, and wellness in every bite.
Explore more recipes in our Herbal Remedies section and discover how everyday plants
can become gentle allies for your health.

Check out the video for the full recipe

Elderflower Mousse: A Creamy WildKitchen Dessert with Summer Aroma

by Thegreensplash | Aug 4, 2025 | Wild Kitchen

Elderflower Mousse: A Creamy Wild
Kitchen Dessert with Summer Aroma

Introduction
Summer in Central Europe has a unique fragrance — the sweet, honey-like scent of
elderflowers (Sambucus nigra). For centuries, these delicate blossoms have marked the
turning of the season, filling hedgerows, gardens, and wild meadows. Today, we bring that
seasonal magic into the kitchen with a dessert that is as fragrant as it is nourishing:
elderflower mousse.

Elderflower in Tradition and Nature

The elder tree (Sambucus nigra) is native to most of Europe and can be found in gardens,
forest edges, and along country paths. Its clusters of white flowers appear in late spring and
early summer, while the dark berries ripen by autumn.
Traditionally, the flowers have been used to make syrups, teas, cordials, and light desserts,
while the berries are cooked into jams, wines, or immune-supporting remedies. In Austria and
Germany, Holundersirup (elderflower cordial) is a beloved summer staple, mixed with
sparkling water or wine.

Herbal Properties of Elderflowers
Beyond their charming aroma, elderflowers are valued in herbal medicine. They are rich in
flavonoids and volatile compounds that contribute to their health benefits:
Antiviral and immune support — elder preparations are often used to prevent or
shorten the duration of colds and flu.
Sweat-inducing (diaphoretic) — helping the body to naturally regulate temperature
during fevers.
Digestive aid — mild support for digestion and bloating.
Scientific studies have confirmed elderflower and elderberry extracts to contain bioactive
compounds with antiviral and antioxidant properties, making them more than just a culinary
delight.

Recipe: Elderflower-Infused Mousse
Ingredients
4–5 fresh elderflower heads (Sambucus nigra)
250 ml liquid cream (heavy cream)
200 g Topfen (quark) or cream cheese
100 g sour cream
2–3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Juice of half a lemon

Preparation
1. Harvest mindfully: Pick fresh elderflowers on a dry day, away from pollution.
Gently shake to remove insects.
2. Prepare the blossoms: Remove the tiny flowers from the stems. Place them in a bowl
with the liquid cream.
3. Infuse overnight: Cover and refrigerate for 12 hours, allowing the floral aroma and
volatile compounds to infuse into the cream.
4. Strain and whip: The next day, strain the cream and discard the blossoms. Whip the
infused cream with sugar until firm.
5. Mix the base: In another bowl, combine Topfen, sour cream, and lemon juice. Gently
fold in the whipped cream.
6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Serving Ideas
Enjoy as a light summer dessert on its own.
Pair with fresh berries, fruit compotes, or a drizzle of elderflower syrup.
Use as a cake filling for a floral, creamy touch.
Freeze the mousse into a refreshing ice cream-style treat.

Closing Thoughts
Elderflower mousse is more than just a dessert — it is a celebration of the season, a
connection to traditional herbal wisdom, and a reminder of the simple beauty that nature
offers. Light, fragrant, and gently nourishing, it’s a recipe that bridges Wild Kitchen
creativity with the well-being principles at the heart of The Green Splash.
Want more seasonal recipes? Subscribe to our newsletter and discover how to bring
nature’s flavors and herbal power into your kitchen all year round.

Check out the video for the full recipe

St. John’s Wort Oil – A Red-HuedBotanical Remedy for Skin Care

by Thegreensplash | Jul 18, 2025 | Botanical cosmetics

St. John’s Wort Oil – A Red-Hued
Botanical Remedy for Skin Care

Introduction
Few herbal preparations are as striking as St. John’s Wort oil. Place the golden blossoms of
Hypericum perforatum into a jar of oil and, after a few weeks in the summer sun, the liquid
turns a deep ruby red. This transformation is more than visual magic — it’s a traditional
European remedy with a long history of use for soothing the skin, calming irritations, and
supporting healing.

In this article, we’ll explore the cultural background of St. John’s Wort, its active compounds,
and how to prepare your own infused oil at home.

Botanical and Cultural Notes
Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John’s Wort, grows wild in meadows, along
paths, and on sunny hillsides throughout Europe. Its name comes from its traditional harvest
time — around St. John’s Day in late June — when the plant is in full bloom.
Throughout history, the plant has been associated with protection and healing. In folk
medicine, St. John’s Wort was used both internally and externally: teas and tinctures were
prepared for mood and nervous conditions, while infused oils and poultices were applied to
wounds, burns, and sore muscles.

Herbal Properties and the Role of Hypericin
The characteristic red color of the oil comes from hypericin, a dark-red pigment found in the
flowers and leaves. Hypericin is photosensitive, meaning it reacts to sunlight — which is why the oil should never be applied before sun exposure. But hypericin is not the main healing agent. Other compounds contribute significantly to the oil’s skin benefits:
– Flavonoids – with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
– Tannins – astringent, helping tighten and protect tissues.
– Essential oils – offering antimicrobial support.
– Hyperforin – strongly active but unstable in light, thought to contribute to wound
healing.
Together, these compounds make St. John’s Wort oil a soothing, regenerating, and
antimicrobial preparation for the skin.

DIY Recipe: St. John’s Wort Infused Oil

Ingredients

1. Fresh St. John’s Wort flowers (Hypericum perforatum)
2. A base oil (sunflower, olive, or almond oil)
3. A few drops of vitamin E (optional, as antioxidant preservative)
4. A clean glass jar with lid

Preparation
1. Harvest: Collect fresh flowers on a sunny day, ideally around midday when they are
most aromatic.
2. Fill the jar: Loosely pack the flowers into the jar, filling it about halfway.
3. Cover with oil: Pour your chosen oil over the flowers until completely covered. Stir
gently to release trapped air.
4. Solar infusion: Place the jar in a sunny windowsill or outdoors for about 28 days. The
oil will gradually turn a rich red color. Shake the jar occasionally.
5. Strain and store: After 4 weeks, strain the flowers and store the oil in a dark glass
bottle. Add vitamin E if desired to extend shelf life.
Uses
– After-sun care: Soothes mild sunburns and heat-irritated skin.
– Skin healing: Supports regeneration of small cuts, abrasions, and insect bites.
– Massage oil: Relieves sore muscles and tension.
– Calming care: Reduces redness and minor skin irritations.

Important note: Do not apply St. John’s Wort oil before direct sun exposure, as hypericin
can increase photosensitivity. Use it in the evening or on areas not exposed to sunlight.

Closing Thoughts
St. John’s Wort oil is a perfect example of nature’s quiet alchemy: golden flowers
transforming into a ruby-red elixir for the skin. Simple to prepare, safe when used mindfully,
and effective in soothing and healing, it remains a cornerstone of European herbal cosmetics.

Check out the video for the full recipe

Plants for People – People for Plants

by Thegreensplash | Jun 8, 2025 | Events

Plants for People – People for Plants is a one-day gathering that celebrates the many ways we connect with nature. The event takes place on June 21st, from 10:00 to 22:00 in the beautiful village of Brloh, near České Budějovice.

Alongside The Green Splash workshop, you can enjoy:

A workshop on Herbal Healing
A session on Preserving Mini-Ecosystems in Your Garden
A Sauna Summer Solstice Ritual to honour the longest day of the year
A Plant Party with live music, herbal drinks and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Join me on this day for a full-day celebration of plants, people and connection. I will be offering my workshop: Botanical Elixirs: The Art of Extracting Nature’s Essence. During this immersive workshop, you’ll learn how to turn wild and cultivated herbs into powerful, personalized botanical remedies. Together, we’ll explore the most effective extraction methods to capture the active compounds of plants and align them with your personal wellness needs.

This workshop is hands-on, practical, and rooted in plant knowledge — but also in intuition, creativity and the joy of crafting with nature.

– What you’ll learn:

The different types of plant compounds (flavonoids, mucilage, resins, essential oils…) and how to match them with the right extraction method

How to prepare:

Infusions & decoctions
Oil macerations (oleates)
Alcohol tinctures
Glycerites
Vinegar & honey extracts

How to choose the best method depending on the plant and your intended use

How to work safely, respectfully and with intention when creating botanical elixirs

– What you’ll create & take home:

A muscle-relief balm with extracted plant actives

A second handcrafted product of your choice (customized for your needs).

Whether you come to learn, to connect or to celebrate the summer surrounded by plants and people — this event is for you.

Come with open hands, a curious mind, and a heart ready to bloom.

Holistic Well-being Through Nature

by Thegreensplash | May 26, 2025 | Exploring the world & Plants

We live in a world where well-being is often fragmented. We separate physical health from mental health, the body from the mind, medicine from nutrition. We have been taught to see ourselves in parts when, in reality, we are a whole.

But nature does not function in pieces. In every plant, every ecosystem, every cycle of the earth, everything is interconnected. And that is how we should understand our well-being—as a holistic experience.

Holistic Well-being: Returning to Our Essence

When I talk about holistic well-being, I refer to a way of living that embraces the body, the mind, and the spirit, understanding that each influences the other. It is not just about preventing illness but about deeply nourishing ourselves, about creating a sustainable balance in our lives.

And nature provides us with all the tools to achieve this.

Because when we immerse ourselves in it, when we learn to observe its rhythms, to understand its plants, to incorporate them into our daily lives, we begin to heal in a complete and profound way.

Science has shown us that contact with nature improves both mental and physical health. But beyond the studies, we feel it in our skin:

Breathing fresh air fills us with energy.
Walking barefoot on the earth restores our stability.
Using plants in our diet and personal care reconnects us with ancestral wisdom.

Each of these practices not only helps us feel better but also reminds us that we are part of a greater system where everything is connected.

How Nature Guides Us to Holistic Well-being

At The Green Splash, my mission is to bring this knowledge closer and make it accessible so that each person can integrate nature into their daily lives and care for themselves in a complete and balanced way.

-Caring for the body through mindful eating, the use of plants, and natural products that respect both our skin and the environment.
-Caring for the mind by learning to connect with calm, reducing stress through practices such as forest bathing and meditation in nature.
-Caring for the soul by reconnecting with the earth, with its cycles, and with a community that shares the same desire to live in harmony.

This holistic approach is not a trend but a way to remember what has always been there—nature as our greatest ally for integral well-being.

And on this journey, I want The Green Splash to be a guide, an inspiration, and a space to explore how to return to a more connected, more conscious, and healthier way of living.

Because taking care of ourselves also means taking care of nature. And when we care for nature, it cares for us in return.

Reconnecting with Nature: Returning to Our Essence

by Thegreensplash | Mar 13, 2025 | Exploring the world & Plants

For as long as I can remember, nature has been my refuge, my inspiration, and my playground. I grew up among fields and crops, feeling the texture of leaves in my hands, climbing over hay bales, and creating tiny worlds with seeds and branches. Every walk, every afternoon spent exploring, ignited something deep inside me—a profound connection with the earth, an instinctive respect for its wisdom. I remember that the first books I ever read were about animals and nature, and my favourite shows were National Geographic documentaries.

I never questioned the place that plants held in my life. They were always there—in my grandmother’s patio, overflowing with potted plants; in the homemade remedies I learned over the years; in the summers spent camping, where nature became the setting for all my adventures. It all felt natural to me. But as the years passed, I realized that not everyone shared this closeness.

When I moved to the city, something hit me hard: disconnection. I saw a fast-paced world around me, exhausted bodies, overwhelmed minds, people who never looked beyond the pavement. I saw many feeling lost, without realizing that the answer had always been there—in nature.

Science, which is also a part of my journey, gave me another perspective. I came to understand that the benefits of nature on our health are not just a feeling—they are backed by studies, by concrete evidence. The earth nourishes us, balances us, heals us. And yet, we have forgotten how to listen to it.

That was when I felt a calling: to share. To share what I know, what I have experienced, what I have learned both in my personal life and through my studies. And so, The Green Splash was born, where nature and science intertwine, where each person can rediscover the green world that surrounds us.

The Green Splash is more than just a project; it is an invitation.

To reconnect with the earth.
To discover the power of plants.
To learn to use them with respect and knowledge.
To remember that we are nature.

But it is also a space to return to calm.

In a fast-moving world, where stress and anxiety have become part of daily life, The Green Splash was created as a sanctuary. A place to take a deep breath, to let go, to be embraced by the serenity of nature.

This is a space for those seeking well-being through a holistic approach, for those who want to integrate plants into their daily lives, for those who wish to find in this community a place of learning, support, and growth.

I invite you to walk this journey with me. To explore, to experience, to immerse yourself in the natural world with fresh eyes. Because nature is not only out there.

It is within us.

What has been your experience with nature?

The Green Splash: A Journey of Roots, Science, and Passion

by Thegreensplash | Mar 5, 2025 | Exploring the world & Plants, Herbal remedies

For as long as I can remember, nature has been my refuge, my inspiration, and my playground. I grew up among fields and crops, feeling the texture of leaves in my hands, climbing over hay bales, and creating tiny worlds with seeds and branches. Every walk, every afternoon spent exploring, ignited something deep inside me—a profound connection with the earth, an instinctive respect for its wisdom. I remember that the first books I ever read were about animals and nature, and my favourite shows were National Geographic documentaries.

I never questioned the place that plants held in my life. They were always there—in my grandmother’s patio, overflowing with potted plants; in the homemade remedies I learned over the years; in the summers spent camping, where nature became the setting for all my adventures. It all felt natural to me. But as the years passed, I realized that not everyone shared this closeness.

When I moved to the city, something hit me hard: disconnection. I saw a fast-paced world around me, exhausted bodies, overwhelmed minds, people who never looked beyond the pavement. I saw many feeling lost, without realizing that the answer had always been there—in nature.

Science, which is also a part of my journey, gave me another perspective. I came to understand that the benefits of nature on our health are not just a feeling—they are backed by studies, by concrete evidence. The earth nourishes us, balances us, heals us. And yet, we have forgotten how to listen to it.

That was when I felt a calling: to share. To share what I know, what I have experienced, what I have learned both in my personal life and through my studies. And so, The Green Splash was born, where nature and science intertwine, where each person can rediscover the green world that surrounds us.

The Green Splash is more than just a project; it is an invitation.

To reconnect with the earth.
To discover the power of plants.
To learn to use them with respect and knowledge.
To remember that we are nature.

But it is also a space to return to calm.

In a fast-moving world, where stress and anxiety have become part of daily life, The Green Splash was created as a sanctuary. A place to take a deep breath, to let go, to be embraced by the serenity of nature.

This is a space for those seeking well-being through a holistic approach, for those who want to integrate plants into their daily lives, for those who wish to find in this community a place of learning, support, and growth.

I invite you to walk this journey with me. To explore, to experience, to immerse yourself in the natural world with fresh eyes. Because nature is not only out there.

It is within us.

What has been your experience with nature?