LOBELIA INFLATA

LOBELIA

Herbal to treat asthma|bronchitis

Lobelia inflata has common name Indian tobacco. Lobelia grows throughout North America. Part used is leaves or herbs. The seed and root may be more potent but also are more likely to cause side effects. Lobelia is not generally used as a food. Lobelia to be one of the most important plant medicines.

It was used to treat coughs and spasms in the lungs, intestines and ureters (passages from the kidney to the bladder). Lobelia to be one of the most important plant medicines. It was used to treat coughs and spasms in the lungs, spasms in intestines and ureters (passages from the kidney to the bladder). Lobelia is stated to posses respiratory stimulant, antasthmatic, antispasmodic, expectorant and emetic properties.  It has been used for asthma, bronchitis, chronic pulmonary disease, poisoning and smoking cessation.

The active constituents of Lobelia is alkaloid lobeline (piperidine-type) 0,48%,  other constituent is bitter glycoside (lobelacrin), chelidonic acid, fats, gum, resin and volatile oil. The alkaloid lobeline is responsible for most of lobelia’s action. Because lobeline is similar in structure to nicotine, is has been employed as an agent to help people stop smoking. Lobelia has been used in anti smoking preparations aimed to lessen nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

However, excessive use of obelia is not recommended. Side effects of lobeline and lobelia are similar to those of nicotine and include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, tremors and dizziness. Symptoms of overdosage are reported to include diaphoresis, tachycardia, convulsions, hypothermia, hypotension and coma.

The recommended dosage to use obelia is 0.2-0.6 gram dried herb of by infusion or decoction three times daily. Liquid extract (1:1 ub 50% alcohol) 0,2-0,6 ml three times daily.