Lobelia Inflata

Lobelia inflata, commonly known as Indian Tobacco or Pukeweed, is a herbaceous plant native to eastern North America, from southeastern Canada to parts of the United States like Alabama and Kansas.

Common Names

• Indian Tobacco

• Pukeweed

• Lobelia

Parts Used

The above-ground parts of the plant — mainly the leaves and seeds — are used for medicinal purposes.

Plant Description

Lobelia is an annual or biennial herb growing up to 3 feet (100 cm) tall.

• The plant has upright, angular, and hairy stems, often with a violet tinge.

• Leaves are pale green or yellowish, with a sharp taste and slightly irritating smell.

• Its violet flowers, sometimes tinged with yellow inside, bloom from mid-summer to fall.

Medicinal Uses and Health Benefits

Though scientific studies on Lobelia’s effects are limited, it has traditionally been valued for various health uses, especially related to the respiratory system.

Respiratory Support

Used alone or with other herbs to help with:

• Asthma (especially bronchitic asthma)

• Bronchitis

• Cough

• Whooping cough

• Croup (spasmodic and membranous)

• Pneumonia

• Tonsillitis

Its active compounds:

• Lobeline acts as a respiratory stimulant.

• Isolobelanine is a respiratory relaxant and mild emetic (induces vomiting), promoting mucus secretion and muscle relaxation — a unique combination that can relieve spasms and congestion.

Other Traditional Uses

• Muscle relaxation — depresses the central and autonomic nervous systems, easing tension and restlessness.

• Helpful for people with high nerve tension, excitability, flushed face, and contracted pupils.

• Assists in cases of high blood pressure, intestinal obstruction, pleurisy, jaundice, and hepatitis.

• Supports smoking cessation, often included in herbal blends to ease nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

How It Works

Lobelia is sometimes described as a "general systemic relaxant with diffusive stimulation". In small, controlled doses, it can:

• Stimulate respiration

• Loosen mucus

• Relax tense muscles

• Calm nerve-related discomfort

However, in large or concentrated doses, it can act as an emetic (induce vomiting) — hence the traditional name Pukeweed.

Caution

Lobelia is a potent herb. Overdosing can lead to side effects like nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, and potentially serious complications.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before use.