Scabiosa spp. | Family: Caprifoliaceae
Scabiosa atropurpurea, a species that grows wild in many parts of South Australia, a hardy perennial that thrives in various regions. This plant produces conspicuous and attractive blooms in the summer, making it a common sight in the wild.
Medicinal Action and Use
Scabiosa species are valued not only for their role in traditional medicine but also for their richness in bioactive compounds. Although only a few species have been studied phytochemically, these studies have identified a wide range of secondary metabolites, confirming that the genus is abundant in flavonoids and terpenoids.
For example, Scabiosa atropurpurea L. is used in Catalonia to treat measles and furuncles and is also recognized as a medicinal plant in France. Another species, Scabiosa columbaria L., is known for treating conditions such as diphtheria, respiratory infections, high blood pressure, and uterine disorders. Additionally, Scabiosa stellata L. is used to heal heel cracks, while Scabiosa tschilliensis Grüning and Scabiosa comosa Fisch. Ex Roem. & Schult. are employed in the treatment of liver diseases. In Peru, the ethanolic extract of S. atropurpurea is traditionally used as an antibacterial remedy, particularly for inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus. An in vivo study of this extract demonstrated its antihyperglycemic, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant activities.
Historically, Gerard mentioned that “the plant generates scabs if the decoction is drunk for several days, and the juice is used in ointments.” He also noted that when the juice is consumed, “it induces sweating, especially when combined with treacle. It thins and purifies, freeing the heart from infection or pestilence.” Culpepper also recognized its medicinal value, stating that it is “very effective for coughs, shortness of breath, and other lung diseases.” He added that “a decoction of the herb, whether dry or fresh, made into wine and consumed over time, is beneficial for pleurisy.” Culpepper further noted that applying the bruised green herb to a carbuncle could dissolve it “within three hours,” and the same decoction could relieve pain and stitches in the side. The root’s decoction was believed to cure all sores and eruptions, often made into an ointment for the same purpose. Additionally, “the decoction of the herb and roots, when applied externally, is effective for treating shrunken sinews or veins and healing green wounds, old sores, and ulcers.” The juice of Scabious, combined with powdered Borax and Samphire, was recommended for removing freckles, pimples, and even leprosy. It was also suggested to wash the head with warm decoction to treat dandruff and scurf.
On the northern isle of Stroma, a healer named Mrs. Mackenzie claimed to cure tuberculosis (TB) using a plant known as Devil’s Bit. This was long before the discovery of antibiotics, which later became essential in controlling TB. However, today we face the alarming possibility of antibiotic-resistant TB, with reports of cases that do not respond to even the most potent treatments. The legend of Mrs. Mackenzie’s TB cure has persisted over time. While some may dismiss it as folklore, the medicinal properties of Devil’s Bit lend credibility to the tale. According to Potter’s New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations, “Devil’s Bit contains saponin glycosides of unknown structure, including scabioside. Its medicinal uses include acting as a diaphoretic, demulcent, and febrifuge. It can be taken as an infusion for coughs and fevers.” These properties suggest that Devil’s Bit targets the lungs—the organ most affected by TB, which presents symptoms like cough and fever. In 2014, nearly 10 million people worldwide were diagnosed with TB, leading to 1.5 million deaths, primarily in developing countries.
Field Scabious, another member of the Scabiosa genus, possesses astringent and mildly diuretic properties. An infusion made from the entire plant can be taken internally as a blood purifier and applied externally to treat cuts, burns, and bruises. Both the fresh and dried flowering plant can be used, with or without the roots. Additionally, a homeopathic remedy derived from Field Scabious purifies the blood and treats eczema and other skin disorders.
References:
spapps.environment.sa.gov.au/seedsofsa/speciesinformation.html?rid=3902, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6313729/, botanicahealth.co.uk/tb-the-devils-bit-scabious-and-immunity/, naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/k/knautia-arvensis=field-scabious.php, A Modern Herbal M. Grieve,
The information provided is for educational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine, particularly if you have a known medical condition, are on any medication, and if you are pregnant or nursing.