MEDICINAL PARTS: Leaves, stems, root.
SOLVENT: Water.
BODILY INFLUENCE: Emetic, stimulant, antispasmodic, expectorant, diaphoretic, relaxant, nauseant,
sedative (secondary cathartic and astringent).
USES: Native Americans used the root and plant of red lobelia for syphilis and for expelling or destroying
intestinal worms. The Shoshones made a tea of lobelia for use as an emetic and physic.
Lobelia is dual in its activities; it is a relaxant and a stimulant. In small doses it stimulates, in large
doses it relaxes. Lobelia is one of the most valuable herbs used in botanic practice. Much has been
written regarding whether this herb is poisonous, but experience suggests that it is an antidote to poison,
whether of animal or vegetable variety. Lobelia is an antidote, chiefly used as an emetic, and may be
prescribed whenever one is indicated. It seems strange that though lobelia is an excellent emetic, when
given in small doses for irritable stomach it will stop spasmodic vomition. It tends to remove obstructions
from every part of the system and is felt even to the ends of the toes. It not only cleanses the stomach but
exercises a beneficial influence over every part of the body. It is very diffusable, however, and needs to
be used with capsicum or some other permanent stimulant to keep alive the blaze that it has kindled.
The action is different on different people, and given alone lobelia cannot cure but is very beneficial if
given in association with other measures. For irritable conditions of the nervous system it is invaluable
and can be relied upon in ordinary convulsions; it should be combined with some nervine, such as lady’s
slipper (Cypripedium pubescens). As an expectorant it may be used to great advantage in small doses for
colds, along with the decided pulmonary agent coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara). For spasmodic croup it is
invaluable; it has also gained a great reputation for asthma along with nervines such as blue cohosh
(Caulophyllum thalictroides) and skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia). It has been successfully used in
lockjaw. Large doses will relax the whole system, completely, so that even the smallest muscles cannot be
used. This condition is termed the “alarm,” and Dr. J. H. Greer tells us “it is uncomfortable although not
dangerous, unless poisons should be administered, which are in this condition quickly absorbed.” This is
not advisable administration for the lay public, however.
Lobelia, in fevers, is suited for phrenitis, meningitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, hepatitis, peritonitis,
nephritis, periostitis. This is not a continually used agent; the intention is to clean out, clean up, and keep
clean the many areas of congestion of the vertebral arteries to pave the way for the use of other remedial
nourishment. In bronchial and pulmonary complaints its action is speedily and wonderfully beneficial.
Can also be used to subdue spasms, epilepsy, tetanus, cramps, hysteria, chorea, and convulsions. Give
first of all an infusion of catnip (Nepeta) to the bowels, which of itself will do much to relieve the brain
and can be administered even when the patient is delirious. Give lobelia in small quantities as the case
may require, but clean out the waste material and relieve the locked-up condition of the body that is
causing the trouble. It is a temporary relief in any case when administered internally, if not used with great
skill and caution it may do as much harm as good.
CAUTION: Never administer lobelia where the system is relaxed or when there is congestion.
DOSE: 1 ounce of the herb to 1 pint of boiling water makes an ordinary infusion, to be administered in
tablespoonful doses every hour or half-hour. A weak infusion given in teaspoonful doses every 10 minutes
(termed “broken doses”) will thoroughly relax the muscular system and prove a great aid in reducing
fractures and dislocations, especially if a cloth soaked in the warm infusion is applied over the seat of the
difficulty. For convulsions, injections of the herb as infusion is best.
EXTERNALLY: A salve or tincture of lobelia and other soothing barks and roots can be employed for
inflammations and swellings, not recommended for indolent ulcers or dark sores.
HOMEOPATHIC CLINICAL: Tincture of fresh plant, trituration of leaves only for alcoholism, alopecia,