Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) is a controversial remedy because it can be toxic in high doses. That said, its traditional--and effective--use as a nicotine replacement earned it the nickname Indian tobacco.

When used as a tincture (not smoked), the lobeline in lobelia eases withdrawal symptoms and relaxes your lungs. I recommend you try gentler remedies before lobelia (see below). If they aren't effective, use a very low dose, which works safely. Take 10 drops of tincture three times a day dissolved in a cup of water. If you take too much, your body will make you vomit to eliminate it.

Before resorting to lobelia, try wild oat tincture (Avena sativa). This herb soothes your nervous system, and studies show that it can reduce nicotine cravings. Take 10 drops three times a day dissolved in a cup of water. (A high dose won't harm you, but it could give you a dull frontal headache.) The homeopathic remedies Caladium sequinum and Tabacum can also help ease withdrawal symptoms. Take 12C potency four to six times a day of either of these until your cravings subside. They have no side effects.

To loosen the thick mucus that lines your bronchial tracts the first month after you stop smoking, drink fenugreek seed tea (Trigonella foenum-graecum). Steep 1 teaspoon of dry seeds (available in most natural food stores) in 1 cup of boiling water for 7 minutes.