The lobelia is a flowering herb. Lobelia was formerly used as a substance to aid smoking cessation but has since been discontinued because of mixed results. The Lobelia inflata variety is one of the most common and popular varieties of lobelia. Lobelia siphilitica and Lobelia cardinalis are other varieties of lobelia plants. These varieties of lobelia can be distinguished from the Lobelia inflate through the different colors of their flowers. Also, Lobelia cardinalis is much easier to differentiate because of the distinct bright red colors of its flowers.
Lobelia can be applied externally and this can help to relax smooth muscles through its antispasmodic properties. Also, you can add lobelia to your bathwater. Also, you can use it for your oral ingestion. For this purpose, you need to dry the lobelia and then brew it into tea. You should talk with your physician to determine the appropriate dosage for you, so you will avoid ingesting too much or too little of this herb. When lobelia is used in high amounts, then it can be poisonous.
Also, it is poisonous for pets and other animals, so you should remove this plant from their area. The most common side effects that are experienced when ingesting lobelia are tremors, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Here are some health benefits of lobelia:
Muscle relaxant
Contents
When lobelia is consumed in small doses, then it can help constricted areas in the body to relax. This can help to promote better blood circulation. Also, it can aid in easing stomach cramps and other body tensions.
Expectorant
The lobelia is decreasing the viscosity and it promotes the excretion of mucus, which is produced in the respiratory system. This natural cure works by triggering the cough reflex and it is said to be more effective than other expectorants. The lobelia is commonly used as a home remedy for bronchitis and pneumonia.
Respiratory stimulant and antispasmodic
There are some studies in which are shown that lobelia can help bronchial tubes to relax. At the same time, it will stimulate breathing and loosen the phlegm.
Good for asthma and other respiratory disorders
In some cases, lobelia is used alongside conventional medications to help treat symptoms of asthma attacks, such as chest tightness, uncontrollable coughing, and wheezing. This is possible because the lobelia has a component called lobeline, which can help to relax your airways, stimulate breathing, and clear mucus from your lungs. Also, lobelia is used to relieve pneumonia and bronchitis, which are two types of lung infections, that cause coughing and difficulty breathing, among other symptoms. The lobelia is often recommended by both herbalists and physicians to treat asthma and related issues, but you need to talk with your doctor before you use it as your home remedy.
Depression
There are some compounds in lobelia that can help to protect against mood disorders, such as depression. The lobeline, a component in lobelia, can block certain receptors in the brain which are playing a role in the development of depression. It is very important to talk with your doctor about your ability to use the lobelia as your home remedy for depression and which will be the recommended dosage for you.
Antioxidant properties
Lobelia has compounds, such as the alkaloid lobinaline, which is acting as an antioxidant. Antioxidants can help you in the fight against free radicals. Free radicals are reactive molecules that can damage cells in your body and increase your risk of illnesses, such as heart disease and cancer. In one study was found, that lobinaline can help in the fight against free radicals, but also, it can aid brain signaling pathways. Also, this component is playing a beneficial role in diseases, which stem from free radical damage and affect the brain, such as Parkinson’s disease.
Drug abuse
There are some studies in which are said that lobelia can be used as a home remedy for drug abuse. The lobeline has similar effects on your body as nicotine, so it has long been considered as a possible tool to help people to quit smoking.
