Certified Organic Lobelia Extract
Also known as: Asthma weed, Bladderpod, Eyebright, Gagroot, Indian tobacco, Indian weed, Pukeweed, Vomitwort, *Lobelia inflata*
Overview
*Lobelia inflata*, commonly known as Indian tobacco, is a herb native to the northeastern United States and Canada. Traditionally utilized for its expectorant properties, it has been primarily used for respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis and has a history of being proposed for smoking cessation. The plant contains alkaloids, notably lobeline, which interacts with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the body. Despite its historical applications, the research maturity level is low, primarily due to a scarcity of well-controlled clinical trials, with most evidence stemming from traditional uses and animal studies rather than rigorous human studies. Hence, while there is some anecdotal support for its efficacy, the overall quality of available evidence remains limited.
Benefits
The primary reported benefits of *Lobelia inflata* include its use in treating respiratory issues; nonetheless, substantial clinical evidence is lacking. Limited animal studies indicate potential benefits in reducing drug dependencies, particularly for stimulant addiction. Secondary effects observed in animal studies suggest possible analgesic, memory-enhancing, anxiolytic, and antidepressant properties, but these have yet to be verified in clinical populations. As such, no specific populations have been conclusively shown to benefit from the supplement, and effect sizes are not quantified due to insufficient clinical data. Overall, while there is observational and anecdotal support for its effectiveness, the scientific backing remains weak and demands further investigation.
How it works
Lobeline, the key alkaloid in *Lobelia inflata*, primarily interacts with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, exhibiting both agonist and antagonist effects. This mechanism affects various body systems, particularly the central nervous system and peripheral systems involved in respiratory functions. Its action on these receptors may play a role in influencing neurotransmitter release and modulating neurological functions associated with respiratory conditions and addiction. However, details surrounding absorption and overall bioavailability remain understudied, requiring further research to elucidate its full mechanism of action.
Side effects
The safety profile of *Lobelia inflata* indicates potential concerns, particularly when used without medical supervision. Common side effects (occurring in more than 5% of users) include nausea, vomiting, tremors, and dizziness, especially at higher doses. Less frequently (1-5% of users), it may cause respiratory distress manifested as sensations of choking or breathlessness. Rare side effects (less than 1%) include cardiotoxic responses such as hypotension, tachycardia, and seizures. Furthermore, the herb is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety evidence. Given the potential toxicity at high doses, the use of *Lobelia inflata* should be avoided without medical oversight, especially in vulnerable populations.
Dosage
Due to the absence of rigorous clinical trials, a minimum effective dose for *Lobelia inflata* has not been established. Traditional usage suggests that 100 mg of dry herb could be taken up to three times a day; however, this recommendation lacks clinical validation. Toxicological data indicate that doses exceeding 0.6 to 1 g of the leaf can be toxic, with 4 g posing a fatal risk. Individual absorption factors remain unclear, and, although the supplement is available in various forms such as tinctures and extracts, users should be cautious about dosage and timing until more data is available. Upper limits for safety must be strictly adhered to due to potential adverse reactions.
FAQs
Is *Lobelia inflata* safe to use?
Use under medical supervision due to potential toxicity and contraindications, especially in pregnancy and lactation.
Can *Lobelia inflata* help with smoking cessation?
While historically proposed for smoking cessation, there is a lack of strong clinical evidence supporting its efficacy.
What are common side effects?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and tremors, particularly at high doses. Respiratory distress has also been reported.
What dosage is recommended?
Traditional uses indicate 100 mg of the dry herb up to three times daily, but this lacks scientific validation.
Are there any drug interactions?
No specific drug interactions have been well-documented, but caution is advised when using this herb.
Research Sources
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/lobelia.html – This source provides a detailed overview of *Lobelia inflata*, discussing its applications, active components, and potential effects, highlighting the lack of definitive clinical evidence in human studies.
- https://osf.io/mepkc/?action=download – This document summarizes the interaction of lobeline with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and its implications for practice, noting the limitations of current research on efficacy.
- https://mountainroseherbs.com/lobelia-extract – Mountain Rose Herbs discusses the traditional uses of lobelia, emphasizing its historical applications while cautioning users about safety and dosing concerns.
- https://files.osf.io/v1/resources/489he/providers/osfstorage/5e9695394301660465a09a42?action=download&direct&version=1 – This resource includes discussions on dosing and the potential therapeutic effects of lobeline on addiction, advocating for more clinical studies to validate traditional uses.
- https://www.herb-pharm.com/products/lobelia – Herb Pharm outlines the traditional benefits and potential risks of using lobelia while emphasizing the need for caution due to safety concerns and lack of clinical validation.
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