Lobelia, also called Indian Tobacco, has been commonly used for centuries as a remedy for asthma and for breathing conditions such as bronchitis, cough, congestion, and COPD, as it has properties that relax and open bronchial passages.  The Indians dried and smoked it for this purpose.  Another well-known use for this plant is as a vehicle to induce vomiting, and Lobelia is sometimes called "Puke Weed" for this reason.  The leaves and seeds are the parts of the plant used for medicinal purposes, with the seeds being the most potent part of the plant medicinally.   

The active ingredient in Lobelia is a substance called Lobeline that works in about the same way as tobacco works on the body, stimulating the central nervous system.  Lobelia is toxic if too much is taken, although an overdose will induce vomiting and as such, there are no reports of anyone dying from it, as nobody can keep it down long enough.  Dizziness, confusion, and weakness can result from taking too much Lobelia, however, so do be careful if you embark on self medication with this plant.

Lobelia will lose its medicinal properties if leaves or seeds are boiled, and as such, it is better to dry the leaves and then grind them to a powder and take 1 teaspoon combined with a little warm water and maybe some sugar or honey (Lobelia doesn't taste very good so adding something sweet will help).  The powder can also be added to alcohol such as brandy and kept sealed in a dark place.  Start small with this herb unless you like vomiting, and work your way up to a therapeutic dose. 

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Don't take Lobelia if you are pregnant or nursing, and don't give to young children.  Don't take for pneumonia or fluid around the lungs, and don't take if you have high blood pressure or hypertension.  Contact with the leaves may cause rash or itching skin.