Bluebuttons

(Field scabiosa) European herb with a long history of use for treating skin problems. It is still known as "scabious", a nod to its reputation as a cure for scabies. The boiled whole herb or roots were used for skin sores and eruptions of all kinds, including eczema, pimples and boils, and even leprosy. It was taken internally as a "blood purifier" or applied externally to affected parts -- or both. The 16th century English herbalist Culpeper used it for coughs and shortness of breath. There is some intriguing research that suggests that extracts of the plant can replace antibiotics in animal feeds by boosting nutrient assimilation and reducing methane gas production. Easy to grow in just about any soil. Attractive violet-blue button-like flowers appearing from June to September are magnets for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.