Chinese Lobelia

This large genus consists of about 370 species of annuals, perennials, deciduous and evergreen shrubs and small trees distributed throughout temperate and tropical zones, especially in the Americas. It provides a wide range of colorful, long-flowering plants for most garden situations, including moist soil and containers. A number of lobelias contain piperidine alkaloids, notably lobeline, the stimulate respiration and cause vomiting. These include the ornamental L. cardinalis; L. rupa (Devil's tobacco). used to treat toothache and smoked as a narcotic by Chilean tribes; and L. siphilitica (great lobelia), used with Podophyllum peltatum (See, May Apple) as a remedy for venereal diseases. Lobelia inflata was used by native N Americans for bronchial complaints and was popularized by Samuel Thompson (1769-1843), a pioneer herbalist and founder of Physiomedicalism. He was prosecuted, but found not guilty of its misuse in 1809. Lobelia is named after Matthias de l'Obel (1538-1616), physician to James I of England.

Slender, creeping perennial rooting at nodes, with ascending branches and lanceolate leaves, to 2.5cm (1in) long. White to rose-purple flowers are borne singly or in pairs in summer.

Common Name:	Chinese Lobelia
Botanical Name:	Lobelia chinensis syn. L. radicans
Genus:	Lobelia
Family:	Campanulaceae
Native Location:	E Asia
Cultivation:	Rich, moist soil in sun or partial shade. Lobelia inflata prefers slightly acid soil.
Propagation:	By division in spring (perennials); by seed sown at 13-18°C (55-64°F); annuals in late winter, perennials as soon as ripe.
Harvest:	Whole plants are cut when flowering. (L. inflata when lower fruits are ripe); used fresh or dried in decoctions (L. chinensis), infusions, liquid extracts, and tinctures.
Warning:	Harmful if eater. Skin irritant and allergen.
Height:	20cm (8in)
Width:	Indefinite
Hardiness:	Z5-9
Parts Used:	Whole plant (ban bian lian)
Properties:	An acrid, anti-fungal herb that is diuretic, reduces inflammation, lowers fevers, contracts tissues, and clears toxins. It acts mainly on the liver and kidneys.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for dysentery, gastroenteritis, cirrhosis, edema, jaundice, schistosomiasis, stomach cancer, eczema, and snakebite with depressed respiration. Excess causes nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and respiratory failure. For use by qualified practioners only.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. Pg 265