Lobelia Inflata - Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts

Lobelia inflata, often known as Indian tobacco, has a long history of use as a natural treatment for respiratory diseases like cough, bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia. In the past, Native Americans used lobelia to manage their asthma by smoking it. American doctors used lobelia to cause vomiting in the 19th century to help patients get rid of toxins from their bodies. This is how it got the nickname "puke marijuana." To help clear mucus from the respiratory tract, including the throat, lungs, and bronchial tubes, lobelia is occasionally recommended in modern medicine. Despite the fact that there are few studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of lobelia, some herbalists use it today as part of a thorough asthma treatment regimen.

Plant description of Lobelia inflata:

The lovely annual or occasionally biennial (reseeding every year or 2) herb lobelia grows to a height of 3 feet. Its angular, hairy, erect stem is often green with a hint of violet. It branches at the top. The light green or yellowish leaves have a strong flavour and mildly offensive aroma. The few flowers have a faint violet blue exterior and an interior that is pale yellow.

Part of Lobelia inflata that can be used: 

The leaves and seeds of the lobelia plant are the parts of the plant that are utilised medicinally.

How does Lobelia inflata work?

Chemicals found in lobelia may thin mucus (phlegm), making it simpler to cough up and facilitate breathing, especially in asthmatics. A substance found in lobelia acts similarly to nicotine.

Benefits of Lobelia inflata:

Breathing System

Since it is a potent anti-spasmodic, lobelia is very useful for treating respiratory issues. If you frequently experience asthma attacks, drinking a tea brewed from this plant helps reduce inflammation, reduce the urge to cough, and ease breathing difficulties.

Expectorant

In addition to reducing respiratory tract inflammation, it can also aid in clearing mucus and phlegm out of the sinuses and respiratory passages, where bacteria and other foreign particles may congregate.

Ringworm

This plant is frequently used topically, and when prepared as a salve or poultice, it can be put directly to the ringworm infestation. Applying consistently for about a week can effectively clean up the illness.

Relaxant for muscles

Because lobelia has some muscle-relaxing properties, it can benefit people with sleep issues by reducing muscle tension and strain when applied topically or taken internally.

Quitting smoking

The main component in lobelia, lobeline, is comparable to nicotine in how it affects the body. Although it can occupy the same chemical receptors in the body and brain, it is not a substance that is known to cause addiction. As a result, this herb is frequently recommended for usage in moderation and caution by those trying to give up smoking.