LOBELIA

Lobelia inflata: Lobeliaceae

PLANET: Saturn

ELEMENT: Water

TASTE: pungent	VIPAKA: pungent
WARMTH: heating	DOSHAS: V+P+K-

MERIDIANS: Liver, Lung, Small Intestine, Heart

ACTIONS: spasmolytic, opens flow of chi, emetic, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, short-term respiratory stimulant, stimulates autonomic ganglia and then depresses with an action similar to nicotine but milder, depresses function of vagus nerve resulting in dilation of bronchioles, both hypertensive and hypotensive, neuromuscular blockage, anaesthetic, appetite suppressant, high doses induce vomiting, seems to be a Wholistic herb which will adjust its opposing actions to need.

INDICATIONS: asthma, bronchitis, smoking cessation, croup, whooping cough

PRECAUTIONS: difference of opinion about whether it can be toxic in large doses: produces CNS depression, cold sweats, violent emesis; Tierra suggests ill effects may be from ill-advised prescription of emetic therapy rather than any specific effect of lobelia itself.

CONSTITUENTS: 0.13 - 2.5% of up to fourteen alkaloids including LOBELINE (cross tolerant with nicotine) , LOBELANINE & LOBELANIDINE; resin; gum; chelidonic acid, and a pungent volatile oil

PREPARATION AND USE:
-Tierra recommends an acid tincture using apple cider vinegar to extract the alkaloids
-Dr. Christopher recommends giving warm peppermint tea while using it as an emetic. Emetic therapy is used to encourage clearing of excess mucus
-5-15 drops tincture or one 00 capsule tid
-use in baths, fomentations, poultices, and liniments for muscle spasms, sprains, bruises, boils,
-small amount can be smoked to help stop smoking or to treat asthma
-can be added to many combinations where relaxation is needed

USE IN MAGIC: to stop oncoming storms, to attract a love.

USE IN PERSONAL GROWTH:
-helps one let go of self-imposed limitations
-helps one let go of blocks
-helps one find the energy needed to face our shadow
-helps one lighten up

"Laughter heals all things. I empower the joy within me."