The only reason that I know about this plant is from my efforts quitting cigarettes years ago, smoking the herb actually pulls gunk out of your lungs while helping stave off the urge for nicotine. It is often used in knicknick blends, Native Americans have been using the herb to treat asthma for years. The vomit sounding nicknames for the plant derive from it’s use in 19th century medicine to remove toxins by way of induce yaking.

WARNING: Lobelia is considered to be a toxic herb because of its lobeline affiliation. 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.

Breakdown of Lobelia:

Scientific Name: Lobelia Inflata [aka: Asthma Weed, Pukeweed]

Magical Stats: Elementally Water, Ruled by Saturn

Improves Function of: 

• Respiratory System

Aides in Relieving Symptoms of:

• Asthma
• Congestion & Whooping Cough
• Bronchitis
• Tobacco Withdrawal
• Muscle Tension
• Skin infections: ringworm, bruises, poison ivy and bites

Assists Spiritually With:

• Health & Protection
• Bring prophetic visions
• Revealing omens
• Draw & Deflect Storms

How Does It Work? The active ingredient in Lobelia is lobeline, which reacts to the body much like nicotine; hence the help with quitting tobacco. It can be used to clear out the lungs, throat and bronchial tubes. It is possible that lobeline reduces the effects of nicotine in the body in relation to the release of dopamine which can help inhibit the effects of addiction. Not a lot of research has been done on humans or animals, so this herb is best left to the professionals. Many herbalists will use it in combination with other herbs to treat respiratory issues, but if you are on any other medicine please consult your prescribing physician before adding this to your regimen in tincture or topical form.

What Do I Do With It? Lobelia is sold at stores in many forms: tincture, dry herbs, ointments, lotion and liquid extracts. The dried herb form can be made into a cup of tea or rolled into a paper to be smoked; again I’d like to reiterate that you should speak to a doctor before playing with this herb at home.