Lobelia | Cut & Sifted | Wildcrafted | Lobelia inflata

Lobelia is one of the most historically significant and potent herbs in the North American herbal tradition — and one that commands genuine respect. Samuel Thomson, the influential 18th-century American herbalist who built an entire system of botanical medicine, called Lobelia inflata "the most powerful relaxant in the vegetable kingdom" and placed it at the center of his Thomsonian herbal system. Used for centuries by indigenous peoples of eastern North America and later by generations of eclectic and Thomsonian physicians, Lobelia has a long and serious history as a respiratory and antispasmodic herb. This is an herb for the experienced herbalist — potent, purposeful, and deeply traditional.

Our Lobelia is cut and sifted wildcrafted herb — Lobelia inflata, carefully dried to preserve its lobeline and alkaloid content. Light, airy, and slightly pungent, with the characteristic mild acrid quality of the lobelia family. Wildcrafted and packed to order in small batches.

Important safety note: Lobelia is a potent herb that should be used with care and in small amounts. It has a narrow therapeutic window — small doses act as a relaxant and antispasmodic; larger doses can cause nausea and vomiting (historically used intentionally as an emetic in Thomsonian practice). Always start with the smallest possible amount. This herb is intended for use by experienced herbalists familiar with its properties and traditional applications. Consult your healthcare provider before use.

A note on preparation: Lobelia is most commonly used in very small amounts as part of a blended formula rather than as a standalone tea. It is traditionally used in tincture form or as a small addition to respiratory and antispasmodic blends. A standard infusion uses no more than ¼–½ teaspoon per cup.

Traditionally Used to Support

• Respiratory wellness and bronchial relaxation — Lobelia's primary and most celebrated traditional use; used for centuries in North American folk and eclectic herbalism to support healthy respiratory function and bronchial relaxation; a foundational herb in traditional respiratory formulas
• Antispasmodic support — traditionally used as one of the most effective antispasmodic herbs in the Western materia medica; used to support healthy muscle relaxation and ease tension throughout the body
• Nervine and relaxant support — used in traditional Thomsonian and eclectic herbalism as a systemic relaxant; supports the nervous system and promotes a sense of ease and relaxation in small, appropriate doses
• Respiratory formula blending — a classic addition to traditional respiratory blends; pairs with mullein, elecampane, and thyme in traditional formulas for respiratory wellness support

How to Use

As an infusion (use sparingly): Use no more than ¼–½ teaspoon of cut and sifted Lobelia per 8 oz of just-boiled water. Steep covered for 10 minutes. Strain and drink slowly. Always start with the smallest amount to assess individual sensitivity.

In blended formulas: Lobelia is most traditionally used as a small percentage of a blended respiratory or antispasmodic formula — typically 5–10% of the total blend. It acts as an activating and relaxing agent within the formula.

Blending: Pairs traditionally with mullein leaf and elecampane for respiratory support, wild cherry bark and thyme for a bronchial wellness blend, or valerian and passionflower for an antispasmodic and nervine formula.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, cut and sifted Lobelia retains its potency for 1–2 years.

⚠️ Consult a medical professional before use and even with that use with extreme caution and in very small amounts only. Not for use during pregnancy or nursing. Not for use in children. Not for use by individuals with heart conditions, low blood pressure, or tobacco sensitivity. Do not exceed recommended amounts — large doses may cause nausea, vomiting, and other adverse effects. This herb is intended for use by experienced herbalists only. Keep out of reach of children.

Wildcrafted. Cut and sifted. No fillers, additives, or artificial ingredients. For experienced herbalists.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.