lobelia inflata

Use sparingly, this plant is powerful. Whole plant is edible. Seeds have most powerful effect. Light purplish blue or white flowers with pointy oval leaves that are hairy underneath, and golden papery bag-like seed pods. Lobelia is a healing sedative that relaxes bronchials, making it good for asthma, bronchitis, coughs and epilepsy. If too much is taken, it causes vomiting, making it a very strong expectorant and clearing mucus etc. Lobelia increases the effect of other herbs, so if for example you are sick and take echinacea, lobelia will make it even more powerful. Be careful if taking medication. Leaves taste like tobacco and contains a non-addictive nicotine-like substance called Lobeline, so chewing them helps people quit smoking since. Used to treat epilepsy, convulsions, hysteria, trauma, tetanus. It is said Indians gave this to arguing couples so they would get along again. Very strong, so take in small doses.