Lobelia inflata

Lobelia inflata, also known as Indian tobacco, Pukeweed, or Asthma weed, is a species of Lobelia native to eastern North America, from southeastern Canada (Nova Scotia to southeast Ontario) south through the eastern United States to Alabama and west to Kansas.

Description

Lobelia inflata is an annual or biennial plant that grows up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are alternate and are narrowly lanceolate to elliptic and up to 8 cm long. The flowers are hermaphrodite, pale violet-blue in color, and are pollinated by insects.

Distribution and habitat

Lobelia inflata is found in a variety of habitats, from open woods and fields to roadsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

Uses

Historically, Lobelia inflata has been used as a medicinal plant by Native American tribes and later by European colonists. It was often used for respiratory ailments, such as asthma and bronchitis. In modern herbal medicine, it is used as an emetic, meaning it induces vomiting.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant contain a toxic alkaloid called lobeline. Ingestion can cause severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and convulsions. It can also cause a burning sensation in the mouth and throat.

Cultivation

Lobelia inflata can be grown from seed and prefers a well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy plant and can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions.

See also

• Lobelia
• Medicinal plants
• Native American ethnobotany

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Lobelia inflata

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  Illustration of Lobelia inflata from Köhler's Medicinal Plants
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  Lobelia inflata plant in bloom