Lobelia inflata Dry leaves

The herb Lobelia inflata
(Lobelia inflata)
Lobeline is a piperidine alkaloid found in lobelia and gives rise to the therapeutic claims surrounding this herb. It is though to stimulate the the respiratory center of the brain resulting in deeper and stronger breathing At a non toxic dose, lobelia is thought to be of value as an herbal remedy for treating bronchitis and whooping cough. Lobelia inflata is a bronchodilator and antispasmodic which explains its popularity as a medicinal herb for asthma, spasmodic croup and pneumonia.
Lobelia is often considered a herb that is useful for tobacco withdrawal and as an herbal remedy to quit smoking. While there is no information that consolidates this view, historically, lobelia has been used as an alternative to tobacco. Lobeline is also believed to have a similar chemical action to nicotine and this too could give reasoning behind its use in tobacco withdrawal.