Lobelia Extract Remedy

Lobelia, or Indian tobacco, is a well-known treatment for many respiratory ailments. It was smoked for asthma by Native Americans and, due to its nicotinelike effects, is sometimes used as an aid to stop smoking. Lobelia has earned the name "puke weed" after its 19th-century use to induce vomiting. Today, its most popular use is as an expectorant during bronchitis to expel infected mucus from the body. Lobelia will dilate the air passages and relax respiratory muscles, thus improving breathing and reducing muscle spasms.

Smoking Cessation

• Lobelia contains a substance known as lobeline, which is an alkaloid substance that mimics nicotine's effects in the body by stimulating the central nervous system. It has been used as an aid for many to quit smoking, though no clinical trials to prove this have been conducted. There is also no long-term information available concerning its efficacy. What was found, however, indicates that lobelia may have more serious side effects than other smoking cessation treatments, especially given its potential toxicity. Therefore, lobelia isn't recommended for this purpose.

Dosage

• Lobelia can be taken through a number of mediums including tinctures, teas, lozenges, infusions, decoctions, capsules and liquid extracts. Your exact dosage may differ, so it's important to seek the advice of a professional for this. Doses, however, are generally determined by body weight on the basis of a 150-lb. adult, given periodically. For example, a person who is 100 lbs. would take two thirds the dose of a 150-lb. adult, while a 300-lb. individual would take twice the dose prescribed.

  For an infusion or decoction, the adult dose (weight 150 lbs.) is ½ tsp. of dried herb per each 8 oz. of boiling water. Boil this for a half hour minimum, and take 2 oz. every 4 hours.

  For liquid extracts diluted to 50 percent alcohol, take 0.2 mL to 0.6 mL (or four to 18 drops) three times daily.

  For tinctures, take 0.6 mL to 2.0 mL (18 to 60 drops) once daily.

  Capsules, tablets and lozenges will be premeasured. Simply follow the instructions given on the container or by your alternative medicine practitioner.

Toxicity

• It's important to note that lobelia is a potentially toxic herb. When taken in quantity it may induce dizziness, nausea, vomiting, profuse sweating, stomach pain, tremors, heartburn and palpitations. It may even slow the pulse, increase blood pressure and result in respiratory muscle paralysis, causing death. Notify your doctor or health care provider immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

  Lobelia also shouldn't be used by pregnant women or women who are nursing. Likewise, if you're diagnosed with high blood pressure, heart disease or tobacco sensitivity, you should avoid this herb as it will interfere with these conditions.

  Lastly, lobelia may interact with certain drugs, though there is currently no scientific evidence of this. However, care should be taken when using lobelia alongside psychiatric medications. It's also wise to avoid lobelia if you're on any nicotine therapy due to the presence of lobeline in the herb.