Lobelia herb: the most important benefits, harms and uses

The lobelia herb is one of the most famous thriving plants, and it is considered one of the common herbs and plants that have been used to treat some health problems for centuries, and it has more than one health benefit, so we will explain to you here the benefits of the lobelia herb, its most important uses and the expected harms of its use, so follow this article with us to learn everything related to it. This herb.

What is lobelia herb?

Lobelia is one of the thriving plants, but it is not one type but a whole genus of plants that includes about 400 different species under the name of Lobelia, but the type commonly used in treatments due to the medicinal properties it has is “Lobelia inflata” and this type of Lobelia herb It is long green stems with a purple flower and small size.

The lobelia herb is native to North America, where the Americans used it long ago for medicinal purposes. Indeed, this herb contains important components and nutrients that made it a good choice for therapeutic uses, but in certain and simple doses.

Lobelia benefits

There are many health benefits of this alkaloid-rich herb, and these benefits come from the components of the herb represented in:

  • calcium
  • potassium
  • magnesium
  • The antioxidants that are considered unique are lobelin and lobelanin.

In the coming lines, we will explain, however, the most important health benefits for more than one system in the human body, and for the treatment of some health problems:

Lobelia benefits for the respiratory system

This herb is one of the well-known herbs that is used in the treatment of some respiratory problems and conditions, such as asthma attacks, which may subside after drinking a cup of lobelia tea and will prevent persistent coughing and calm down inflammation, in addition to other respiratory problems. It is also considered a powerful antispasmodic.

expectorate

In addition to its role in treating and relieving symptoms and problems of the respiratory system, it also helps to expel phlegm and mucus in the sinuses and in the airways, i.e. places where viruses and pathogens can settle.

Ringworm treatment

Ringworm, which is one of the skin diseases that is a fungal infection caused by fungi that appear in the skin, and this herb is often used after converting it into a topical ointment, ointment, or substance to be placed on the location of the ringworm and the site of the infection, and this is due to its local benefits, and treatment can be continued with derivatives Take this herb for one week regularly and it will get rid of the infection and it will go away.

Benefits of lobelia for muscles

This herb helps to relax the muscles very effectively, due to the relaxing properties it contains, and it can be used topically on the muscle or through internal consumption, as this herb has properties that relieve tension and muscle fatigue, and therefore it may be useful for people who suffer from problems sleep.

Quit Smoking

This herb contains a chemical known as “lobeline”, which affects the body in the same way as nicotine and plays on the same receptors in the brain, but it is not addictive, so it is used instead of nicotine in the event of smoking cessation, but it is prescribed and used in moderation.

Get rid of depression

This herb contains some compounds that help protect you from mood disorders, depression problems, and stress.

Other health benefits

There are some other health benefits that lobelia may contain, including:

  • Treating insect bites, due to their antibacterial properties.
  • Getting rid of bronchitis.
  • Lung cleaning and disinfection.
  • Improve memory health.

Important notice

Studies and scientific research on this herb have only shown its effects, but it is one of the herbs that must be taken in simple proportions and small doses and mostly not orally but in other forms, because high doses of it are toxic, so caution must be taken if used, and it is better to refer Ask a medical professional or herbalist to direct you best before using it.

For example, if it is recommended to use it to quit smoking, then the dose is only 5 milligrams twice a day, but this dose must be under the supervision of a specialist and not taken on your own. In addition, most of the studies conducted on lobelia may need other research support to ensure 100% of its health benefits and importance.

How to use lobelia?

This herb can be fully exploited, as it is possible to use stems, flowers, leaves, seeds, etc., and to benefit from every part of it, and it is used in more than one form, such as:

  • Lobelia tea drink
  • Make essential oil from it
  • tincture
  • stocked
  • Lobelia extracts or derivatives thereof, whether in liquid form or in other forms
  • Remedies, capsules and tablets

Lobelia side effects

This herb is considered one of the herbs beneficial to health as long as it is used in the correct form and doses, but this does not prevent that there are several side effects that may result from its use, especially if it is taken orally, including:

  • feeling dizzy
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • Cough
  • shortness of breath
  • infections

But if excessive doses are taken, this may be included in the toxic doses and the symptoms will increase, such as:

  • heart rate
  • convulsions;
  • Reduction of Blood pressure
  • heavy sweating
  • Coma and may even lead to death

And in case:

  • If you suffer from a heart disease or a disease of the digestive system, it is preferable to avoid this herb because it increases problems and complications.
  • Pregnancy and lactation, it is not safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, so it is better to avoid using it because it is a strong herbal substance and may have some dangerous effects on your health during this period.

Toxic doses:

The toxic dose of lobelia has been determined as follows:

  • 1 gram of lobelia leaf is considered a toxic dose.
  • 4 grams of lobelia leaf is considered a lethal dose.

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