What Is Lobelia?

Lobelia inflata, commonly called lobelia, is a small herb with pale blue flowers that is native to eastern North America.

How to Use Lobelia (Common Uses)

Lobelia can be used internally as a tea, powder, or extract. It can also be applied topically. Lobelia is a popular ingredient in herbal smoking blends.

Medicinal Uses and Benefits of Lobelia

Lobelia is an important herb in Western herbal medicine, and is used for a wide range of conditions. It can be found as an ingredient in our Allergy Relief Tea, Gout Relief Tea, Pain Relief Tea, and Tissue Healing Herbs.

Lobelia acts as a bronchodilator and can help to expel mucus from the lungs, reduce muscle spasms, and provide pain relief.

Many people experience lobelia differently depending on the dosage. It is a strong herb and we recommend starting slow when using lobelia. In low doses, it may be stimulating, however, some people find its effects relaxing when used in a larger quantity.

Lobelia has an approximate lobeline content of 0.26%-0.40%. Lobeline is a strong alkaloid found in lobelia which binds to the nicotine receptors in the body. It is best known for providing a decrease in cravings for nicotine, and is popular as a smoking cessation herb. Lobelia and lobeline are both non-addictive.

Applied topically, lobelia can be beneficial for muscle sprains and strains, bruises, and bug bites.

Active Constituents in Lobelia

Lobeline, lobelanine, lobelanidine, beta-amyrin palmitate.

Notable Facts About Lobelia

Overconsumption of lobelia can cause nausea.

If lobelia is used in combination with smoking cessation products, both the effects and side effects could be enhanced.

Lobelia is not recommended for children, or for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.