Herbal Series - Lobelia

Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
The main parts used of the Lobelia plant are the flowering parts and the seeds. The seeds are the most potent because they contain lobeline, a piperidine alkaloid. Named after Matthias de Lobel, a 17th century botanist, Lobelia is known as Indian Tobacco because it contains lobeline. Lobeline is believed to have a chemical make up similar to nicotine and was therefore used as an alternative to tobacco. In the 19th century, Lobelia was also used as a medicinal herb to induce vomiting, thus removing harmful poisons from the body.

An often misunderstood herb that has been maligned by pharmaceutical companies and allopathic medicine. Lobelia is a very potent herb that can produce profound results in a short period of time. It is an herb which should be used with caution. When used properly lobelia is an excellent expectorant to loosen phlegm, an anti-asthmatic. It is also used to treat hysteria, panic attacks as well as convulsions and spasm or spastic conditions. 
It’s effect is somewhat narcotic, but it is a safe an effective treatment for any condition of spasm or pain. Also very helpful for nicotine withdrawal. ​It is important to begin with lower dosages and increase the dosage over a period of time.It is also imperative that you never surpass a dosage of 20 mg per day. If you consume a dosage higher than 500 mg, it could be fatal.

I have used lobelia for years in combination with skunk cabbage and other herbs in the form of Muscle Calmer, which is based on Jethro Kloss’s old time antispasmodic tincture. His book Back to Eden paved the way for many people to become their own best doctors.

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