Lobelia
(Lobelia inflata)
Also know as Indian tobacco
Botanical Information
A hairy annual or biennial with light blue flowers and extremely acrid leaves.
Working with Lobelia
Part(s) Used
Leaves, Flowers
Herb Forms
Tincture, capsule, bulk herb, powder.
Affects
Lobelia is a respiratory system stimulant given for asthma and other diseases of the lungs, such as chronic cough, emphysema, pneumonia, and whooping cough. Lobelia is used to ease the symptoms associated with tobacco withdrawal because of the alkaloid it contains, lobeline, which has a similar, but less toxic effect on the nervous system than nicotine. Lobelia was used traditionally for asthma and chronic bronchitis. L. chinensis is used in Chinese medicine as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and to counteract toxins and venoms.
Lobelia has a taste of ACRID, PUNGENT and a temperature of WARM.
Cautions
Lobelia is a strong emetic. It can cause nausea and vomiting in some people when the recommended dose is exceeded. Start with 10 drops of the tincture several times daily to check for individual sensitivity. The dose can then be increased in 5-drop inc
