Description :
Lobelia is an erect annual or biennial herbaceous plant that grows between 1 to 2 feet tall. It is native to Eastern North America but grows almost anywhere in direct sun or partial shade. The lower leaves and flowers are stalked. The flower is a pale violet-blue and tinted pale yellow within. The whole plant can be dried and used. Lobelia tends to relax muscle spasms and has vigorous expectorant qualities. When taken in small doses, it has a calming effect; as dosage increases, the effects become stimulating. Taking too much or taking it for too long is not recommended. Externally, a Lobelia poultice can help support inflamed tissues.
History and Folklore:
Named after the 17th-century botanist, Matthias de Lobel, Lobelia is known as Indian Tobacco because Native Americans used it as a substitute for tobacco because it has similar effects when smoked. Lobelia was also used as a medicinal herb to induce vomiting, thus removing harmful poisons from the body. The larvae of some moths and butterflies use Lobelia as a food source.
Cultivation and Harvest:
The upper portion of the plant including the seeds.
Precautions:
Do not take if pregnant or nursing. Do not take if pregnant, lactating, or have low blood pressure. Taking too large a dose will cause nausea and vomiting.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Antispasmatic, Anti-inflammatory, Diaphoretic, Expectorant, Nervine
Other Names:
Pukeweed, Indian Tobacco, Gagroot, Asthma Weed, Vomitwort, Rapuntium Inflatum, Bladderpod, Red Lobelia, Cardinal Flower
Ingredients: Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
*This statement has not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
Easton –