Lobelia 4:1

Botanical: Lobelia inflata

Family: Campanulaceae-bellflower

Other common names:  Indian Tobacco, Asthma Weed, Pukeweed Vomitwort, Wild  Tobacco, Emetic Herb, Emetic Weed, Rag Root, Bladderpod.

Lobelia is considered to be one of the most powerful herbs available to help calm your mind and relax your body.  And when it seems as if you've tried everything available to quit smoking - "cold turkey," "the patch," chewing on toothpicks, celery sticks or pencils - then maybe it's time to try Lobelia.   This herb has helped many people take control of their cravings and finally "quit the habit."  Lobeline salts in Lobelia are said to render nicotine terrible-tasting.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Lobelia was named in honor of the botanist, Matthias de Lobel, a native of Lille, who died in London in 1616.  Lobelia is native to North America, and it was both chewed and smoked by Native Americans.  The root of Lobelia siphilitica (the blue or great blue lobelia) was used by the Iroquois Indians to treat syphilis, hence its name.  This herb was also placed in the bed of quarreling couples to help them regain their love.  The plant was also known to the Penobscot Indians, and it was widely used in New England long before the time of Samuel Thomson, who is credited with its discovery.  Lobelia was brought into general professional use by Cutler of Massachusetts.  The leaves of this plant are primarily used, because the seeds and root are more potent and are considered more likely to cause side effects.  Lobelia was frequently used by midwives as a sedative for its muscle relaxing effects in preparation for childbirth.  Today, Lobelia is used as an effective blood cleanser and also to treat a variety of respiratory problems.  As one of the most useful muscle relaxants, Lobelia is rich in vitamins A and C and manganese.  It is used as an expectorant that helps to expel phlegm from the lungs and relieve congestion that is typically related to asthma and bronchitis.  Lobelia is also thought to reduce cold and flu symptoms, suppress coughing and stimulate perspiration, cooling down the body and helping to break fevers. Lobelia is considered beneficial for treating mild depression, reducing inflammation and pain, easing muscle tension and calming the nerves.  It is also said to act as a mild laxative for alleviating constipation.  Lobelia is often used as a tobacco substitute to help those who wish to quit smoking - the alkaloid, Lobeline, is said to mimic the effects of nicotine.  It has long been used to treat poisonous stings and bites.  The primary chemical constituents of this herb include piperidine alkaloids (lobeline, isolobeline), lobelic acid, chelidonic acid, glycoside (lobelacrin), essential oil, resins and fats.  The activity of Lobelia is dependent upon a liquid alkaloid first isolated by Proctor in 1838, who named it "lobeline."  Lobelia also contains gum, resin, chlorophyll, fixed oil, lignin and salts of lime and potassium, along with ferric oxide.  Lobelia may be used in many conditions in combination with other herbs to further their effectiveness. 

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, one (1) time each day with water at a morning or midday mealtime.  Do not exceed recommended dosage.

Contraindications:
This product is not recommended if you are pregnant or lactating, or for people with high blood pressure or for those prone to faintness.  Lobelia may cause nausea and vomiting when overused (many times the recommended dosage stated for this product).

Capsule Information:
Our Lobelia supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.