The Toxicity of Lobelia

History

• Indians smoked lobelia as an herbal remedy for many conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, cholera and whooping cough. Lobelia flowers were traditionally steeped in tea to relieve the symptoms associated with colds and other respiratory conditions.

Potential

• According to Drugs.com, the alkaloid found in lobelia, lobeline, was a component in many different over-the-counter smoking cessation programs for years. However, most studies failed to conclusively prove its efficacy. For this reason, lobelia was withdrawn for use in over-the-counter medications in 1993 by the Food And Drug Administration.

Effects

• A toxic dose of lobeline can cause respiratory, digestive, cardiac and nervous system problems. These symptoms can be serious, causing serious damage, coma or death. Symptoms occur with high doses of the herb. Pregnant women should not take lobelia because it can cause a loss in uterine muscle tone.