Lobelia inflata
Indian tobacco This annual
plant native to eastern North America is associated with the Element
of Water and
the planetary rulership of Neptune on account of its ability to facilitate a
dreamy, relaxed state, because it is an expectorant, and because it is used
in storm magick. Its prominent ovaries (the "inflata") make it a
very female plant and for that reason it is often incorporated into spells
for love magick. Growing this magick herb is said to attract winged Fae to one's
yard. Some Native Americans used it for purification. In the language of
flowers, lobelia means malevolence. Top
Lobelia
has a long history of use by various peoples as a nervine, anti-asthematic,
expectorant, emetic, and as a tobacco substitute (it actually
works on nicotine receptors as a nicotine antagonist, although
it contains no nicotine). Both Native Americans and Eclectic medicine
recommended it be smoked for asthma. It
is considered the most powerful of all the various types of lobelia
and can be dangerous when used stupidly. Do not eat. This plant is also known
as Rapuntium inflatum, Pukeweed,
Asthma Weed, Gagroot, Vomitwort, and Bladderpod. Top
How to grow lobelia. This annual plant is unusual because
the seeds need light to germinate rather than darkness. Sprinkle
fine seed on the surface of wet soil and just barely tamp in with your fingertip.
Only water from beneath (see general
growing info).
You can also use a light mist to water them.
Germinates in 2-3 weeks. Pot up when it is three months old, and
set out at 8-12" apart when transplanting. The plant likes rich soil
and full sun or part shade. This is a slow-growing plant. It forms
a rosette and then "bolts," producing a one-foot stalk
with small flowers. Harvest when seed pods are just beginning to
develop; wear gloves. Dry
out of direct sun in a well ventilated place. This plant dries
quickly when harvested. Top
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Lobelia inflata Indian Tobacco 100 seeds
$3.75
Go to the herb
Uses in Witchcraft & Magic:
Divination Rain Magick Love Magick Faery
Favorite Purification Elemental Magick (Water) Neptune
Herb
© 2004, 2018 Harold A. Roth;
No reproduction without permission
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