Also branded as Indian tobacco, asthma weed, pukeweed, gagroot and vomitroot, Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) has a broad and proven history on respiratory illnesses and muscle disorders. Aside from these, L. infalata is now recognized as a developing treatment for anal fissure.
The primary active element in the plant is an alkaloid called lobeline. It is comparable to nicotine, thus it acts as relaxant. This is responsible for the valuable characteristics in the plant. Lobelia has also emetic, antispasmodic, expectorant, diaphoretic, anti-asthmatic and most especially purgative properties. This means that the plant can cause the same effect as laxatives. This plant characteristic is highly beneficial for anal fissure patients. This improves constipation through better bowel movement. When suffering from this fissure, a worst-case scenario is the continuous degradation in the anal canal. Having constipation deteriorates the success rate of an acute fissure victim to heal.
Lobelia is an angiosperm, which usually blossoms in mid-summer to fall. Color varies from violet and yellow. It comes as a biennial or annual herbaceous plant that grows up to three feet. Its leaves are toothed and ovate, with a distinct odor while the stem is upright and angular. The portions used for herbal medicines are the above-ground segments such as seeds and leaves.
This could be used as a dried herb in capsules, teas, tinctures and liquid extracts. Precautions, however, are advised when consuming any of these forms. The plant is believed to be toxic when taken in large amounts. When these forms are taken in, start with low dosages first before increasing. Depending on the outcome, the medicine’s dose should be adjusted, thus it is important to consult a doctor or herbalist. Compliance is greatly recommended as contraindications are verified when using other medicines.
Different supplements or capsules made from lobelia can be discovered in the market today. Vinegar tinctures are even available. Nevertheless, tea, liquid extract and tincture can also be prepared at home if preferred. The basic procedure for making an acid tincture is to mix the crushed seed from the herb with vinegar then seal it tightly with a glass jar and shake daily for two weeks.
Afterwards, filter the remaining plant components before transferring the tincture to a clean container. Twenty to 60 drops, thrice daily is the standard dosage for vinegar tincture. For liquid extract, simply simmer the herb in water for an hour. Sugar or honey can be squeezed with the solution for flavoring since using this plant means a tobacco-like odor extract.
Similarly, in a solution wherein 50 percent alcohol is used for fluid extract, standard quantity to be consumed ranges from 0.2 to 0.6 ml, three times a day. Tea could also be done easily. Firstly, use the dried and pulverized plant then boil with water for 10 minutes. Using around 0.2 to 0.6 grams of dried herb is the traditional practice.
Aside from anal fissure treatment, lobelia reduces heart palpitations, relaxes the body, eases stress and anxiety, encourages good blood flow, expels mucus and assists in the removal of obstructions in the body and the blood vessels. That, along with its bronchodilating impact, helps in airway opening, thus, giving the lungs a boost. As a final point, recommended dosage should be strictly followed for favorable outcomes.