Herb
Lobelia
A relaxant herb traditionally used in poultices and to support efforts to quit smoking.
🛑 RemedyRank warns against this
Called puke weed for a reason. The line between a dose and a poisoning is narrow, and overdose stops breathing.
This page exists so the reasons are written down plainly, not because the practice is recommended. Nothing is sold here. If a doctor has prescribed something for a diagnosed condition, follow their guidance — that is a decision between you and them, and it is a different thing from trying this at home.
⤢📊 How it ranks (our editor score) — 45/100Tap to see the breakdown
👶 Safe for children?
This remedy carries age-related cautions. Please read them before giving it to a child, and check with your pediatrician or pharmacist first.
- Consult a doctor before use if you have heart disease; not for children
🌱 What it is
Lobelia is a potent relaxant herb historically used externally in poultices and, in small amounts, to help ease tobacco cravings.
🥄 How to use it
Combine with drawing herbs in a poulticeMashed plant material applied right on the skin. How to make a poultice → for skin conditions, or use lobelia externally in a poultice only -- taking it internally is not recommended because of its toxicity, and any smoking-cessation use belongs under a practitionerutine, under guidance.
How much: Small amounts as a temporary aid only, such as a few sips of weak teaA warm drink made by steeping herbs in hot water. How to make a tea →; not for daily long-term internal use.
Why it works: Lobelia contains compounds that produce a relaxing effect and, structurally, mimic nicotine slightly, which is why it has traditionally been used to ease withdrawal cravings.
⚠️ Cautions
- Lobelia is potent and can cause nausea or vomiting in larger amounts — use only small doses for a limited time
- Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
📚 Learn more
🌿 Deeper natural detail
🩺 The conventional view
Curated links coming for this one.
💬 Ask Remy about Lobelia
📚 Resource confidence
Based on mentions in health references
Your vote is saved. Source endorsement totals come from books and studies (+7 per book, +5 per article). You can change your vote anytime from this device.
💬 Comments & experiences
Share what worked for you — and reply or 👍 like the experiences that resonate. Comments get a quick review before they appear publicly, to keep things safe and honest. Please don't make medical claims.
💚 Have an experience to share? Create a free account to join the conversation — your words might be exactly what someone else needs. Reading is always open to everyone.
Know a remedy like this?
Share a structured suggestion and our team will review it for the site.
Suggest a similar remedy