Slender-stemmed, annual climber with pointed oval leaflets, curly tendrils, clusters of white or lilac flowers, and a bean pod containing kidney-shaped seeds. Blooms: July-September. Height: Up to 12 feet

Powdered or infused, the leaves are hypoglycemic, reducing blood glucose levels in the treatment of diabetes. The dried mature pod is also used for this purpose. The seeds have the same property, meaning that all three parts of the bean plant may be used to lower blood glucose levels.

Upright, many-branched square stems, with blue or violet flowers in whorls having tubular, bell-shaped calyxes. The leaves are opposite and hairless, and it produces four nutlets as fruit. Height: 2-3 feet. Blooms June-August.

Hyssop is used as a heart and circulation tonic, and helps regulate blood pressure. It also soothes the digestive tract. Hyssop has also been shown effective in treating lung conditions like bronchitis where there is excessive mucous.

Herbaceous perennial with brilliant orange or red flower clusters, followed by green pods that open and release silky seeds. Height: 2 feet. Blooms: Mid-summer to autumn

Pleurisy root relieves inflammation in the lining of the throat and lungs. It also induces sweating, and helps with lymphatic drainage. It is an expectorant, helping to ease upper respiratory conditions.