ENGLISH NAME: Field Scabious
LATIN NAME: Knautia
arvensis
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Chrastavec rolní
Turkey: Tarla düğün
çiçeği
Bulgaria: Полски синчец (Polski
sintchets)
Georgia: ველის სკაბიოზა (Velis skabioza)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Widespread in
temperate, sunny zones
Elevation: 200–1,400 meters
Terrain: Bright forests,
dry meadows, glades, pastures, and road embankments
DESCRIPTION:
Field Scabious is a perennial herb reaching 30 to 80 cm in height. It features
lance-shaped basal leaves and taller flowering stems with unique,
pincushion-like flower heads composed of small, tubular blossoms in shades of
pink, lilac, or violet-blue. It blooms from midsummer to early autumn and
attracts a variety of pollinators.
USABLE PARTS: Flower
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used for its astringent and mild anti-inflammatory effects. In
folk medicine, it was applied externally for skin irritations and internally
for mild respiratory issues.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally safe; not commonly used internally today, so caution is advised when
experimenting with large quantities.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Can be blended with calendula or chamomile in skin-soothing herbal mixes or
teas.
PREPARATION:
Flowers may be dried for herbal teas, decorative use, or gentle infusions.
Occasionally used in poultices or compresses.
HARVEST TIME:
Mid to late summer, when flowers are fully open and aromatic.
HARVEST METHOD:
Cut stems with open flower heads during dry weather. Avoid wilted or
insect-damaged plants.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry flowers in a shaded, ventilated space. Store in sealed containers away from
sunlight and humidity. Best used within one year.