The Power of the Lotus

The storied history of the lotus

The powerful lotus plant has been used in East and Southeast Asian traditional medicine and cuisine for centuries. The lotus has the title of India’s national flower and is a symbol of purity in Buddhist and Hindu traditions.

The lotus is a bowl-shaped perennial and is often confused with water lilies. There are over 100 species of lotus. You’re probably most familiar with the white single-flower lotus, which has around two dozen petals. Other types of lotuses include the double-flowered lotus, which can have over 100 petals, as well as pink and red varieties.

This plant’s medicinal usage goes back generations but the science behind its potential has only recently come under study. What kinds of conditions might this flower be able to treat?

Halt your diarrhea

One of the lotus’ most common uses in traditional Chinese medicine is stopping diarrhea. To try this natural remedy, soak lotus seeds in warm water for a few hours and then add rock sugar until you find a taste you like.

Note: People suffering from constipation should avoid using lotus.

Lower your blood sugar and cholesterol

Lotus root contains both fiber and complex carbohydrates. These two components work together to help manage your body’s cholesterol and blood sugar. Fiber and complex carbohydrates also help maintain a slow and steady digestive process.

Relieve inflammation

Inflammation is usually accompanied by a sensation of heat. It’s an uncomfortable side effect or symptom of many conditions. It can also be caused by trauma, chemical exposure, or physical injury.

Recent research suggests that the seeds of both red and white lotus varieties could help reduce inflammation. A 2013 study

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 found that two polysaccharides in lotus plumule have significant anti-inflammatory effects and show promise as a base for future treatment. Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties were found to be significant.