Asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by bronchial spasms, inflammation of the mucous lining of the lungs and excessive mucus. Acute asthma attacks can be a medical emergency, thus appropriate medical care is essential. Chronic asthma is associated with shortness of breath; cough and wheezing .Conventional treatment include bronhodilatators, beta adrenergic agents and corticosteroids. Lobelia extract has been used in folk medicine for respiratory diseases. However, there is little evidence from clinical studies for using this herb for asthma.
Characteristics
Lobelia Inflata is an annual or biennial herb native to North America and England that belongs to Lobeliaceae family. Its key active ingredient is lobeline, an alkaloid with effects similar to nicotine. Lobeline stimulates respiration, causes bronchial constrictions and in high doses may produce choking and episodes of breathlessness. The leaves and the seeds of Lobelia are used for medicinal purposes.
Benefits
According to Drugs.com, Lobelia has been used in folk medicine for respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and whooping cough. Lobelia has been also used for nicotine and other drug addictions. This herb may improve memory, concentration and have anti-anxiety effects. Lobelia is also called "Puke weed" because of its emetic qualities. Lobelia extract is available in tinctures, capsules or in tea bags.
Safety
According to a study conducted by LJ. Mazur published in the June 2001 issue of "Texas Medicine," Lobelia extract was found to be potentially toxic. The FDA withdrew the Lobeline over-the-counter supplement from its use for nicotine addiction in 1993 due to its potentially toxic effects. Adverse reactions have been reported at doses of 8 mg of lobeline sulphate or higher and these reactions include nausea, vomiting and dizziness.
Drug Interactions
Lobelia has not been well researched for possible interactions with other drugs and herbs. University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC, suggests caution using Lobelia extract in combination with anti- psychiatric drugs, tobacco, nicotine based or nicotine substitute products. UMMC indicates that a safer form of Lobelia extract is the homeopathically diluted Lobelia. There are no known interactions between homeopathic Lobelia and other drugs or herbs.
Considerations
Asthma can be a serious medical condition. Lobelia or other herbs do not replace conventional treatment. Consult a qualified health care practitioner to find out optimal dosage of Lobelia extract for your condition, as well as all possible side effects and interactions with other herbs or drugs. For homeopathically diluted Lobelia extract a homeopath should be consulted, because the picture of the homeopathic remedy has to perfectly match an individual's unique symptoms.
