Lobelia

Western Bulk Herbs – Lobelia

Lobelia leaf relaxes the central nervous system and relieves neuro-muscular action. The leaf stimulates the respiratory system, while also increasing catarrhal secretions and expectoration. It is often smoked to relieve asthma or chewed to relieve cravings for tobacco. Lobelia leaf clarifies the mind and is considered antispasmodic which makes it a relaxant and nerve depressant, easing panic and stress. In tincture form lobelia leaf can be used as a local application for sprains, bruises, or skin diseases.

Going by many names, this herb is a go-to for an alternative smokable or to help wean oneself off of other narcotics. It is stimulating, yet relaxing. Pairs well with Ephedra in combating asthma.

Latin Name:
Lobelia inflata

Common Names:
Pukeweed, Indian Tobacco, Asthma Weed, Vomitwort, Lobella, Indian pink, pukeweed, vomit weed

Parts Used:
Aerial parts

Properties:
Expectorant, diaphoretic, anti-asthmatic, emetic, respiratory stimulant, anti-spasmodic

Traditional Uses:
Tea or can be smoked and added to other smoking healing herbs.

Topical Uses / Applications:
N/A

Culinary Uses:
Not used in cooking.

Folk Lore:
N/A

Chemical Properties:
carboxylic acids, piperidine alkaloids and lobeline (substance similar to nicotine).

Cautions:
Not to be used by pregnant women or by people who have cardiac diseases. Lobelia contains an alkaloid that is similar to nicotine and is thus dangerous to children, pregnant women, and heart problem patients. Excessive doses will cause nausea and vomiting. Do not use under the circumstances of nervous prostration, shock, or paralysis. Do not use if you have pneumonia, high blood pressure, fluid around the lungs, or a sensitivity to tobacco. Should only be used under the direction of a qualified practitioner.

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Resources:
PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2000. Medical Economics Company, Montvale, New Jersey.
The New Holistic Herbal. David Hoffmann, 1990. Barnes and Noble Books, New York.
A Modern Herbal, Mrs. M. Grieve, (Dover Publications, New York, 1971)
Major Herbs of Ayurvedic.Compiled by Dahur Research Foundation and Dahur Ayurvet Limited, Ghaziabad, India., 2002. Churchill Livingstone, London, England.
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica, Third Edition, Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble, 1986. Eastland Press, Seattle, WA.