LOBELIA
Lobelia, or Indian Tobacco, Lobelia inflata (N.O. Lobeliaceæ), is extensively employed in North America in the treatment of asthma. The plant is officinal in the British Pharmacopœia. In small doses it possesses expectorant properties.
Symptoms.—Nausea, vomiting, giddiness, cold clammy sweats, and great depression. The pulse becomes irregular, and very feeble. Taken together, the symptoms are not unlike those produced by tobacco.
Fatal Period.—One to two days, or more.
Fatal Dose.—One drachm of the powder.
Chemical Analysis.—The alkaloid is fluid and may be extracted like nicotine; with it (1) strong sulphuric acid gives a red colour; (2) sulphomolybdic acid gives a violet colour.
Treatment.—The same as recommended under tobacco. Stimulants should be given, ether hypodermically or alcohol per rectum.