Let's Talk About Lobelia inflata

Since Lobelia inflata, known as Indian Tobacco, doesn't belong to the Relaxing Herb Project as I believed, I am delighted to share some pictures taken by Sylvia Newberry in 2006 around her property.

Photo 1: by Sylvia Newberry

This is a annual plant that grows to 0.6m by 0.3m. Hardy to zone 0. Lobelia inflata blooms from July to August and the seeds ripen from August to September. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs)The plant is self-fertile and the seeds ripen from August to September.

Photo 2: by Sylvia Newberry

Throughout an e-mail that wrote me she says: "... What I would like you to see if how different the structure of the plant is as well as the flowers from the plant that you originally planted. And note the "inflated" seed pods, which eventually pop and throw the seeds great distances.

Photo 3: by Sylvia Newberry

It is the leaves, flowers and sometimes seeds that are used medicinally. Lobelia is a very powerful medicine and many herbalists chose not to use it. But even if you never actually use it, I think it is a wonderful opportunity to look at the plant - the shape of the leaves - alternate or opposite - hairy stem - unique seed pods - and to appreciate its uniqueness as a plant..."

Photo 4: by Sylvia Newberry

Some reports says that the plant is poisonous. It contains the alkaloid lobeline which has a similar effect upon the nervous system as nicotine. When chewed, the leaves induce vomiting, headache and nausea - in larger doses it has caused death

North American Indians used this as a remedy of conditions. But now, it is used mainly as a powerful antispasmodic herb in the treatment of respiratory and muscle disorders.