Herb of the Week - Lobelia
Also known as Indian tobacco, Pukeweed, and Asthma weed.
9/22/20251 min read
Lobelia inflata comes from the Campanulaceae family and was a very indispensable remedy for the Indigenous people of North America. The Cherokee use it extensively for croup and bronchial spasms. But, it's not the only Lobelia in town - there is also Lobelia cardinalis (aka cardinal flower), and Lobelia syphilitica (aka greater lobelia). Though, don't let the name "Pukeweed" deter you from this potent herb!
As one of the common names attests to, this herb can be used as an "emetic" (a substance that induces vomiting) by chewing a leaf which, due to its sharp and unpleasantly pungent taste, will evoke nausea. But, this herb's power is in its low dosage as a vinegar-based tincture to relax bronchial spasms from asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and spastic coughs. It's also helpful as a musculoskeletal relaxant and calms rapid heart rates.
As for its magical properties, it's associated with the element of water and is used for love, protection, divination, and hexing spells/rituals. It's also considered a good addition to a fairy garden if you're interested in working with the Fae. If you use it in hexes, it's pretty good in formulas to repel or target enemies and drive a person away.
