Covering a wide range of world regions and climatic conditions, with delicate flowers in colors from white to blue, purple, and red, Lobelia also has a long history of successful use in herbal medicine. This amazing flower is especially appreciated for its relaxing properties for the respiratory system and for fighting symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and cough.
Lobelia – the life and color of your garden
Growing lobelia in your garden can contribute to the development of a lively ecosystem. The colorful flowers attract pollinators like butterflies and bees, transforming your garden into a joyful green corner. It is available in a range of colors, including pink, purple, white, red, and blue, which makes it a versatile option for hanging plant baskets, pots, and gardens.
Lobelia inflata benefits on health
Lobelia inflata is one of the 415 types of Lobelia. What makes it special? Lobelia inflata is also known as Indian tobacco because of its historical use by Native Americans to treat respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
A substance known as lobeline, found in Lobelia inflata, has a variety of positive effects on the body. Lobeline has antidepressant, muscle-relaxant, and breathing-stimulating properties. Thanks to its ability to inhibit the effects of nicotine and other narcotics, it may also aid in the treatment of drug addiction.
Lobelia inflata also has some other potential health benefits, such as:
・Anti-inflammatory properties
・Relieving respiratory symptoms by relaxing the airways and clearing mucus
・Promoting brain health and memory
・Helping with drug addiction by blocking the effects of dangerous addictive substances
The Medical Medium talks about Lobelia
In his book Life-Changing Foods, the Medical Medium mentions Lobelia inflata as one of the 50 foods that can heal the body and soul. According to him, Lobelia inflata is a powerful herb that can help with various respiratory issues, such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and cough. He also says that Lobelia inflata can calm the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and enhance spiritual awareness.
How to grow Lobelia in your garden
Lobelia is not a pretentious plant – it is easy to grow and it does well in both light and partial shade. It can withstand occasional dryness, but normally loves watered soil.
Here are some steps that will help you to grow your own lobelia:
∙ Plant the seeds indoors and let them grow 6-8 weeks in early spring. Keep the soil lightly moist until the seeds germinate. It is best to transplant the young plants as soon as there is no chance of frost outside.
∙ Choose a spot in the garden where the plants can get a minimum of 3 hours of sun daily. Lobelia prefers rich, moist soil, therefore it’s important to water the soil regularly, but avoid overwatering.
∙ Add natural liquid fertilizer once per month to help the plants grow. Make sure that you opt for ecological fertilizers that do not contain dangerous substances.
∙ Enjoy watching the flowers grow and bloom!
How to use Lobelia inflata
When the lower fruit is ripe, you can harvest the seeds and leaves and use them fresh or dried. The seeds are very small and can be picked gently with a piece of paper.
The seeds and leaves of Lobelia can be consumed in small quantities, for example as tea with raw honey or lemon.
However, it is important to be sure that you consume the right dosage as large quantities can cause harmful side effects. The plant should be used with caution and under professional guidance. Start with a small amount (about ¼ teaspoon) and gradually increase the dosage as you monitor your tolerance and reaction.
You can also consume lobelia without the hassle as a supplement in capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts. These forms are dosaged properly and are suitable for consumption. We love the alcohol-free Lobelia Liquid Extract from Hawaii Pharm which is clean, pure, and concentrated.
For relief of muscle spasms, inflammation, and pain, lobelia can also be used directly on the skin. A few drops of lobelia mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil may be used in creams, ointments, and lotions that contain lobelia extract. The mixture may be massaged onto the area in question, if necessary.
If you decide to use lobelia (or any other herbal remedy), either internally or topically, you should always check with your doctor before using.
