Devnala

(Wild Tobacco)
Sanskrit: देवनल • Botanical: Lobelia nicotianaefolia Heyne.

Devnala (Lobelia nicotianaefolia) is also known as Wild Tobacco. It grows in Western India and hilly regions at 3-4 thousand feet. The plant reaches 10-12 feet tall. The leaves resemble tobacco. The plant contains Lobeline, which acts as a respiratory stimulant. It is used primarily in Shvasa (asthma) and Kasa (cough). The plant has emetic properties in larger doses. Lobelia excelsa (another species) is also mentioned. The alkaloid Lobeline acts on the respiratory center. Dose: leaf extract 1-2 drops; powder use cautiously.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Lobeline (C22H27O2N), Lobelanine, Nicotine
Also Known As
English: Wild Tobacco, Lobelia
Sanskrit: देवनल, देवनला
Hindi: देवनल

What is Wild Tobacco / Devnala (देवनल)?

Devnala (Lobelia nicotianaefolia) is also known as Wild Tobacco. It grows in Western India and hilly regions at 3-4 thousand feet. The plant reaches 10-12 feet tall. The leaves resemble tobacco. The plant contains Lobeline, which acts as a respiratory stimulant. It is used primarily in Shvasa (asthma) and Kasa (cough). The plant has emetic properties in larger doses. Lobelia excelsa (another species) is also mentioned. The alkaloid Lobeline acts on the respiratory center. Dose: leaf extract 1-2 drops; powder use cautiously.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Shvasahara (alleviates dyspnoea/asthma)
  • Kasahara (alleviates cough)
  • Chhardikara (emetic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.