The efficacy and function of Lobelia

In modern life, everyone is very familiar with various Chinese herbal medicines. Among them, Lobelia [Picture] is a very common one. So what are the effects and functions of Lobelia [Picture]? Let's take a look.

[Other names] Lobelia [Northeast], large lobelia

[Source] They are Lobelia sessilifolia Lamb. and Lobelia melliana Wimm, plants of the genus Lobelia in the Campanulaceae family. The roots, leaves or the whole herb with flowers are used as medicine. Harvested in summer, used fresh or sun-dried.

[Original morphology] 1. Lobelia is a perennial upright herb, 30 to 60 cm tall, with white latex when broken, and a slender rhizome that rises obliquely with many fibrous roots. Leaves are alternate; sessile or nearly sessile; leaf blades are broadly lanceolate or lanceolate, with leaves at the lower part of the stem being wider, gradually narrowing upwards, and with shallow giant teeth on the leaf margins. Blue-purple flowers bloom from August to September, solitary in the leaf sap; calyx oblong, with 5 triangular lobes at the tip; corolla slightly two-lipped, the upper lip two-lobed almost to the base, the lower lip three-lobed and shallower; 5 stamens, polyanthemum; ovary inferior, stigma two-lobed. The capsule is oblong, ribbed, and has a triangular linear persistent calyx at the top.

[Chemical composition] The whole herb of Lobelia contains lobeline (C ₂₂ H ₂₇ O ₂ N).

[Pharmacological Action] Lobeline has a selective excitatory effect on the respiratory center. On the one hand, it has a direct effect, and on the other hand, it causes respiratory excitement through the carotid bulb reflex. This excitatory effect is more obvious when the respiratory center is suppressed. It also has an expectorant effect.

【Nature and flavor】 Spicy, neutral. Slightly poisonous.

【Functions and indications】It can clear away heat, resolve toxic substances, and promote diuresis and reduce swelling. Used for bronchitis, ascites due to liver cirrhosis, and edema; used externally to treat snake bites, bee stings, carbuncles and furuncles.

[Usage and Dosage] 1-3 qian; for external use, mash the fresh product and apply to the affected area.

[Remarks] The large species of the same genus, LOBElia davidi Fr-anch., is similar to the previous species, but the plant is shorter, less than 1 meter, with lanceolate leaves with fine serrations on the edges; the calyx is about 1/2 the size of the corolla. Distributed in the southwest and east to Jiangxi. In some areas, lobelia is also used as medicine.

【Excerpt】 National Compendium of Chinese Herbal Medicines

[Source] "Herbal Medicine for Famine Relief"

Lobelia [picture] is a common Chinese medicinal material, but it is often forgotten by people. In fact, its effects and functions are beyond your imagination. As long as you are good at eating it and use the right method, I believe it will be of great help to your body.