Definition:
Lobelia (lobelia inflata), also known as Indian tobacco, is a plant with medicinal properties that has been used historically to treat respiratory ailments such as:
References:
U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Illnesses and Injuries Associated with the Use of Selected Dietary Supplements
Published: 3-19-2006
Lobelia (lobelia inflata), also known as Indian tobacco, is a plant with medicinal properties that has been used historically to treat respiratory ailments such as:
- asthma
- bronchitis
- cough
Lobeline
The alkaloid lobeline, an active ingredient in lobelia, though less potent, is similar to nicotine in its effect on the body. For this reason, lobelia has been considered a nicotine substitute and used in herbal smoking remedies, though its success in this area is dubious.Lobelia can be Toxic
In low doses, lobeline causes:- bronchial dilation
- increased respiratory rate
- respiratory depression
- sweating
- rapid heart rate
- hypotension
- coma
- death
Avoid using Lobelia if:
- you are pregnant
- you are a child
- you have a heart condition
References:
U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Illnesses and Injuries Associated with the Use of Selected Dietary Supplements
Published: 3-19-2006
Also Known As: Indian tobacco, puke weed

