LOBELIA

                                                                                                                         Lobelia erinus

Lobelia has a long history of use as a herbal remedy for respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia & coughs. Helps to clear mucus from the respiratory tract. 
Fine treatment for fevers, pneumonia, meningitis, pleurisy, hepatitis & peritonitis.
Lobeline is an active respiratory stimulant, which relieves the bronchial spasms.
A homemade cough syrup can be created by combining tea made from lobelia & other cough suppressing herbs, such as mullein  & wild cherry bark, with honey. Lobelia is almost never used alone as a treatment for any condition, due to its strength & must be combined with other herbs.

Lobelia is a relaxant & nerve depressant, which can ease tension & anxiety.
It is beneficial for allergies, colds & headaches.
Lobelia has been considered a useful pain reliever & in higher amounts was used to induce vomiting in people who had been poisoned.
Lobelia is used as a sedative, which depresses spinal chord function excessively.
Lobelia has also been used to help with nicotine addiction.
Reduces palpitations of the heart.
Strengthens muscle action.

Lobelia can be made into a poultice for bruises, erysipelas, felons, insect bites, ringworm, sprains & poison ivy irritation.

Native Americans smoked the leaves as a cure for asthma.

PRECAUTIONS:

Lobelia is considered a potentially toxic herb. Special care is advised when using lobelia.
It should not be taken by anyone in large amounts or for long periods of time. Taking more than 50 mg per day can lead to suppressed breathing, decreased blood pressure, or even coma.
Signs of lobelia poisoning may include weakness, heartburn, weak pulse, difficulty breathing & collapse.
People with high blood pressure, heart disease, tobacco sensitivity, paralysis & seizure disorder should not take lobelia.
Lobelia is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

MAGIC:

Lobelia symbolized malevolence, hate & ill will within the Victorian era.
It is never recommended that you practice spell magic for malevolent purposes, but if you do, prepare for unpredictable results with Lobelia.
Results with herbs like this one are always nasty, but never predictable.

For those interested in fairy magic, Lobelia is a must-have addition to the fairly garden.
Like most of the poisons, this expresses "hate" while other hexing herbs express "anger, contempt or
dislike".

Other uses for Lobelia include storm magic, love magic & combined with other herbs for purification & divination rituals.