Indian Tobacco (Lobelia, Asthma Weed)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Lobelia inflata
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Leaves
Seeds
Chemicals this herb contains:
Isolobenine
Lobelanine
Lobelidine
Lobeline
Nor-lobelaine

KNOWN EFFECTS

Large amounts stimulate central nervous system. Small amounts depress central nervous system as blood level drops. Activates vomiting center in people not accustomed to lobelia.

Miscellaneous information:
Sometimes advertised as "legal grass." Do not be misled! Toxic effects can be dangerous.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats asthma. Decreases thickness and increases fluidity of mucus from lungs and bronchial tubes. Promotes weight loss.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future. Have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis), ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Breast-feeding:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated slightly dangerous, particularly in children, persons over
55 and those who take larger than appropriate quantities for
extended periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS