Limited evidenceStress & mood

Lobelia

A traditional herb whose alkaloid lobeline resembles nicotine and was long promoted for quitting smoking. Cochrane found no evidence that it works, and the plant is genuinely toxic at higher doses.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

No evidence for smoking cessation Moderate evidence
A Cochrane review of lobeline for smoking cessation found no trials showing a benefit on long-term abstinence, with the available studies too small and too short to detect an effect. The conclusion was that lobeline cannot be recommended.
Pharmacological rationale without clinical support Limited evidence
Lobeline interacts with nicotinic receptors and vesicular monoamine transport in laboratory studies, which is the basis of interest in it for stimulant and nicotine dependence. Reviews of Lobelia species note that this preclinical activity has never translated into clinical benefit.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseNo effective or safe supplemental dose has been established. Traditional emetic use relies on doses that reliably cause vomiting.

SafetyLobelia is emetic and toxic in overdose: nausea, vomiting, sweating, tremor, rapid heartbeat, hypotension, seizures and coma have been reported. Avoid entirely in pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, and in people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Several countries restrict its sale.

Scientific references

Lobeline for smoking cessation
Stead LF, Hughes JR — Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2012
Beyond Alkaloids: Novel Bioactive Natural Products From Lobelia Species
Zheng Q, Wang Y, Zhang S — Front Pharmacol, 2021

Where to buy

View on iHerb

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