Lobelia
Lobelia inflata
Traditional quit-smoking herb containing nicotine-mimicking lobeline
About Lobelia
Lobelia, also called 'Indian tobacco' or 'pukeweed', is the most famous herbal ally for quitting smoking. It contains lobeline — an alkaloid that binds to the same nicotinic acetylcholine receptors as nicotine, essentially tricking the brain into feeling satisfied without the addictive reinforcement. Lobeline was a key ingredient in many early over-the-counter anti-smoking products in the 20th century. It is also a respected respiratory herb for asthma and bronchospasm in very small doses.
Key benefits
- Contains lobeline, which mimics nicotine at brain receptors to reduce cravings
- Traditionally used as the #1 herbal aid for quitting smoking
- Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, easing asthmatic breathing
- Small doses act as a respiratory stimulant and expectorant
How to use
Use only under supervision of a trained herbalist — lobelia is potent and narrow-margin. Typical dose is 5-10 drops of tincture when cravings strike. Never exceed labeled dosage. Not for long-term daily use.
Did you know?
Lobelia was so central to 19th-century American folk medicine that an entire school of healing, Thomsonian medicine, was built around it. Its founder Samuel Thomson was tried for murder in 1809 after a patient died from overuse of lobelia — he was acquitted, and the case helped establish legal protections for herbal practitioners.
Remedies that use Lobelia
Frequently asked questions
What is Lobelia good for?
Contains lobeline, which mimics nicotine at brain receptors to reduce cravings; Traditionally used as the #1 herbal aid for quitting smoking; Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, easing asthmatic breathing; Small doses act as a respiratory stimulant and expectorant.
What is Lobelia?
Lobelia, also called 'Indian tobacco' or 'pukeweed', is the most famous herbal ally for quitting smoking.
How do you use Lobelia?
Use only under supervision of a trained herbalist — lobelia is potent and narrow-margin. Typical dose is 5-10 drops of tincture when cravings strike. Never exceed labeled dosage. Not for long-term daily use.