Lobelia, an herb grown in the African mountains and commonly known as Indian tobacco, has a long history of use as an herbal medicine for respiratory ailments such asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and cough. Native Americans used to smoke lobelia as an asthma remedy.
I however use it when I feel the onset of anxiety hitting me due to being overwhelmed with work.
Lobelia has been used to treat breathing disorders in newborns, such as asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath (apnea). It’s used also as a sedative by some people to help them relax. Others use it to make them sweat more although I have not had that experience.
The herb eliminates mucus from the lungs by relaxing the airways and stimulating breathing.
I also do breathwork in a very unstructured way. I take a moment and do some deep breathing, giving thanks for my essential oils that smell lovely. I will go outside in nature for 20 minutes and breathe in the natural smell of the outdoors. I find joy in my nose. Great smells give me pleasure so engaging that and just taking a break is helpful.
Humming, chanting, and singing is also helpful to activate the vagus nerve.
The vagus nerve is your body’s longest nerve. It links your brain to a number of vital organs throughout your body, including your gut (intestines, stomach), heart, and lungs. It is also an important part of your parasympathetic nervous system, which helps you relax and digest food. It has an impact on your respiration, digestion, and heart rate, all of which have a significant impact on your mental health. The parasympathetic nervous system is activated by increasing vagal tone, and having a higher vagal tone indicates your body can rest faster after a stressful situation.
It’s also worth noting that research has revealed that vagal tone is handed down from mother to child. Vagal activity is lower in mothers who are unhappy, worried, or angry during their pregnancy. Once their child is delivered, the newborn exhibits reduced vagal activity as well as low dopamine and serotonin levels. Dopamine affects mood and muscle action, as well as the pleasure and reward systems in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and digestion. Serious health problems can develop if your body doesn’t produce enough of these chemicals or if your nerves and receptors aren’t functioning properly.
Lack of social interaction and loneliness are also linked to low vagus nerve activation. To combat this, I’ve created the Central Florida Health and Wellness Weekender, which I post every week in an attempt to connect with like-minded people.
Episode Resources:
🍈 Learn more about the vagus nerve here
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// HOST Samantha Salmon
Certified Integrative Nutrition Coach and Ambassador of Health and Happiness
// CO-HOST Dorrell Hylton Salmon
Mom, Wife, Hair Doctor, Beauty Parlor Counselor, and Prayer Warrior
The information provided in this broadcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration, or the equivalent in your country. Any products/services mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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