Lobelia Herb treats breathing problems and more

Lobelia Herb treats breathing problems and more

Lobelia (officially Lobelia inflata),aka Indian tobacco, was a common herb prescribed by early North American physicians. Its main use was to cure respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia and cough. The plant's trunk, which has few branches, is smooth at the top while the lower part is rough and hairy. The lower leaves, which are about two inches long, have stems, while the upper, smaller leaves do not. The light green or yellowish leaves have a pungent taste and a slightly irritating smell. The sparse flowers are light purple-blue on the outside and light yellow on the inside.

Lobelia consists of various alkaloids, a bitter glycoside (lobelacrin), a pungent essential oil (lobelianine), resin, gum, chelidonic acid and fats. The alkaloid lobeline is its main component and namesake. Others include lobelidine, lobelanine, nor-lobelain, lobelanidine, nor-lobelanidine and isolobenine, as well as fourteen pyridine alkaloids.

Lobeline has a similar effect to nicotine in its effect on the central nervous system, butwithout the addictive properties. In fact, it is a key ingredient in many smoking cessation treatments. Lobeline has an overall relaxing effect and is used to treat spastic colon and muscle problems. It also expands the bronchioles, thereby increasing breathing and helping the lungs.

The main use of lobelia is to treat respiratory problems such as bronchitis and pneumonia.It stimulates the adrenal glands to release the hormone adrenaline, which relaxes the respiratory tract. Lobelia is a powerful relaxant and removes blockages. It relaxes the stomach (a common problem in asthmatic children) as it dilates the bronchi. In fact, many people have used it instead of inhalations to stop asthma attacks.

Other practical ways to utilize the qualities of lobelia include these. Rub lobelia tincture or extract on the shoulders of a restless child; This is an excellent way to help him fall asleep. Rub the extract on the gums of a teething baby. Take it internally to clear mucus, remove congestion from the stomach, and promote the flow of oxygen-rich blood. A poultice can be used for ringworm, bruises and insect bites. Catnip and lobelia enemas are good for treating mumps in men. As a sedative it is said to be somewhere between Veratrum and Aconite.

Use lobelia to treat laryngitis in children and barking coughs. Ellingwood recommended lobelia for the following pathologies: “asthma spasmodic, convulsive croup, membranous croup, infantile convulsions, whooping cough, puerperal eclampsia, epilepsy, tetanus, hysterical paraxysms, diphtheria, hysterical convulsions, tonsillitis,” pneumonia, among others.

Lobelia is available for internal use as a dried herb, liquid extract form, and tinctures. Externally it is available in ointments, lotions, suppositories and patches. You can make a tea by mixing 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the dried herb with 8 ounces of water. Then let it steep for 30 to 40 minutes. Take two ounces of it four times a day, but be warned, many think it tastes terrible! Take 6 to 2 ml of the tincture daily. This is based on a 150 pound adult. Adjust dosage proportionately for children.

Lobelia is considered a potentially poisonous herb. Particular caution is required when using it. Signs of lobelia poisoning may include weakness, heartburn, weak pulse, difficulty breathing, and collapse. People with high blood pressure, heart disease, tobacco sensitivity, paralysis and seizures should not take lobelia. Lobelia is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Lobelia can be an aggressive emetic, even in relatively small doses when the system is highly toxic. The resulting nausea and vomiting are unpleasant but beneficial for the patient.