Giant Blazingstar (Liatris pycnostachya) has a history of use in traditional Native American medicine, including among the Cherokee and other tribes. Traditional herbalists have used the roots of various Liatris species for a range of ailments, including as a poultice for sores, wounds, and skin infections, which could include carbuncles (clusters of boils caused by bacterial infection). The use of Giant Blazingstar for carbuncles appears to be based on its general reputation as a topical remedy for skin problems rather than specific documented efficacy for carbuncles in modern literature.

Scientifically, there is very limited evidence to support the effectiveness of Giant Blazingstar for treating carbuncles. There are no well-conducted clinical studies or pharmacological investigations directly evaluating its antibacterial or anti-inflammatory actions in the context of carbuncles. The traditional use is likely grounded in empirical observation and the broader historical context of using Liatris species for skin ailments. The rating of 1 reflects the existence of traditional use, but with little to no rigorous scientific validation or mechanistic evidence specific to carbuncles.

In summary, while Giant Blazingstar has traditional uses for skin conditions, including those that might resemble carbuncles, its use for this specific purpose is not substantiated by modern scientific research.