Lobelia is a plant that typically provides blue flowers, and you can find it throughout the United States. Historically, lobelia has had a place in herbal medicine, particularly for breathing problems and to help a person stop smoking. Even though lobelia may have health benefits, this herb could result in dangerous side effects if you use too much. Talk with your doctor about the potentially harmful effects of lobelia before starting a supplement and verify that you take the appropriate dosage.
Side Effects
Small doses of lobelia may not cause any side effects, but in higher quantities, you may experience signs of a reaction. These side effects may include stomach upset, cough, changes in heart rhythm, dizziness, seizures or depression. Depending on your sensitivity to lobelia, you may experience additional symptoms as well.
Dosage
Lobelia extract comes in the forms of liquid, dried or tinctures. For liquid extract, a potentially safe dose may include up to 18 drops of liquid lobelia extract three times daily. For tinctures, you can use up to 60 drops daily. If you use dried lobelia, you can steep up to 1/2 tsp. in water up to four times a day. Before taking lobelia, talk with your doctor because these safe dosages could vary for you when considering your general health.
Exceeding the dose recommended by your doctor could result in toxic side effects such as convulsions, tremors, coma or death. To prevent poisoning and serious side effects, you should carefully consider whether lobelia is the appropriate treatment for you.
Warning
Lobelia may interact with components of some medications. Some of these medications include antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. Lobelia may also interact with medications used to treat people with attention deficit disorders. You should not use lobelia if you use smoking cessation medication or nicotine substitutes such as patches or gum, and you should not smoke if you use lobelia.
Consideration
If you have breathing problems or if you smoke and think a supplement such as lobelia could offer some benefits to helping your condition, consult your doctor. She can help you determine an alternative to lobelia that may offer a safe, nontoxic way to treat your condition or help you stop smoking.
