Lobelia (Lobelia inflata), also called Indian tobacco, has a long history of use as an herbal remedy for respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and cough. Native Americans historically smoked lobelia as a treatment for asthma. In the 19th century, American physicians prescribed lobelia to induce vomiting in order remove toxins from the body. Because of this, it earned the name "puke weed." Today, lobelia is considered an effective expectorant, meaning that it helps clear mucus from the respiratory tract. Although few studies have thoroughly evaluated the safety and effectiveness of lobelia, some herbalists today incorporate lobelia into a comprehensive treatment plan for asthma.

An active ingredient in the lobelia plant, lobeline, is similar to nicotine in its effect on the body. Like nicotine, it stimulates nerves in the central nervous system. In fact, lobeline has been used as a nicotine substitute in many anti-smoking products and preparations designed to break the smoking habit. In 1993, however, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prohibited the sale of lobeline-containing smoking products because, according to the FDA report, they lacked effectiveness in helping people quit or reduce smoking.

It is important to note that lobelia is a potentially toxic herb. Lobelia can be safely used in very small doses (particularly homeopathic doses), but moderate to large doses can cause serious adverse effects ranging from dry mouth and nausea to convulsions and even coma (see Precautions). Under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, however, lobelia, in combination with other herbs that affect the respiratory system, is considered relatively safe.

Lobelia is an attractive annual or sometimes biennial (replanted every year or two) herb that grows to a height of three feet. Its erect, hairy stem is angular, branching at the top, usually green with a tinge of violet. The pale green or yellowish leaves have a sharp taste and a slightly irritating odor. The sparse flowers are pale violet-blue outside and pale yellow inside.

The above-ground portion of the lobelia plant (namely the leaves and seeds) are used for medicinal purposes.

Lobelia has not been extensively studied in animals or in people. However, a qualified healthcare practitioner may recommend this herb (usually in combination with other herbs) for the treatment of the following respiratory tract disorders or symptoms:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Cough

Lobelia is available in liquid extracts, tinctures, and as a dried herb in capsules.

Therapy should begin with lower dosages and increase gradually, depending upon response.

Pediatric

Adjust the recommended adult dose to account for the child's weight. Most herbal dosages for adults are calculated on the basis of a 150 lb (70 kg) adult. Therefore, if the child weighs 50 lb (20 to 25 kg), the appropriate dose of lobelia for this child would be 1/3 of the adult dosage.

Adult

The following are recommended adult doses:

• Dried herb (infusion or decoction): ¼ to ½ tsp herb in 8 oz of water, preferably mixed with other herbs; steep 30 to 40 minutes. Take 2 oz four times per day. (This method is not preferred because of lobelia's acrid taste.)
• Liquid extract (1:1 in 50% alcohol): 0.2 to 0.6 mL (4 to 18 drops) three times per day
• Tincture of lobelia: 0.6 to 2.0 mL (18 to 60 drops) per day
• Vinegar tincture of lobelia (1:5 in dilute acetic acid): 1 to 4 mL (20 to 120 drops) three times per day

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain active substances that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a practitioner knowledgeable in the field of botanical medicine.

Lobelia is considered a potentially toxic herb. Active substances in lobelia bind to nicotine receptors in the nervous system and can cause serious symptoms such as profuse sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, rapid heartbeat, mental confusion, convulsions, hypothermia, coma, and even death. A total of 20 mg lobelia per day should not be exceeded. Doses higher than 500 mg are highly toxic and, again, could be fatal.

People with high blood pressure, heart disease, tobacco sensitivity, paralysis, seizure disorder, and shortness of breath as well as those recovering from shock should not take lobelia. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid this herb.

There are no known scientific reports of interactions between lobelia and conventional medications.

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