Native to Eastern North America, Lobelia inflata was commonly smoked by indigenous tribes to bring relief to asthma. Many people think Lobelia is poisoning due to a scandal in the 19th century. Medical practitioner, Samual Thomas, frequently used Lobelia with many of his patients, thinking it a “cure-all” medicine. When one of his patients died of unknown causes, Lobelia was blamed and Thomas was taken to trial. Although it has been proven wrong, the stigma remains. 

Lobelia is considered antispasmodic (meaning it calms spasms) and relaxing. It is commonly used for respiratory ailments as well as muscle tightness. When taken internally, lobelia can assist in warding off asthma attacks. Lobelia should only be taken in small doses because at larger doses it can induce vomiting.