The lotus plant, with its white flowers and light green leaves, has a long history of medicinal use in Chinese medicine. It is also considered sacred by Buddhists, Hindus, and Egyptians and has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including weight loss, liver conditions, and muscle spasms. The plant is available in various forms and is considered safe with no known negative side effects.
Lotus leaf (Nelumbo nucifera) is an aquatic perennial plant that is closely related to the common water lily (Nelumbo lutea). This plant has white flowers with light green leaves and grows throughout tropical Asia and the Middle East. Known by many other names, such as the sacred lotus, Indian lotus, Chinese arrowroot, and Egyptian bean, it has a long history. In fact, the sacred lotus has been used as a medicinal herb for thousands of years.
The lotus is popular among various cultures throughout the world, represented in folklore, religion, literature, and art; and has long been considered sacred by Buddhists, Hindus, and Egyptians. The lotus leaf is the object of meditation in Buddhism. Hindus believe that Brahma, the creator and god of the universe, arose from a lotus flower. The Egyptians compare the plant to the sun, since its flowers open in the morning and close at night. It is also seen as a symbol of resurrection.
The entire lotus plant has been used in Chinese medicine to treat everything from diarrhea to bleeding ulcers. Lotus leaves were also highly regarded as a weight loss cure, as the plant is a diuretic. One of the main functions of the lotus leaf plant is to stop bleeding associated with excessive menstruation, hemorrhoids, and vomiting blood. All parts of the plant can be used as an astringent and cardio tonic. In addition, the lotus is used as a treatment for mushroom poisoning.
Used with other herbs, the plant can help treat heat stroke, fever, diarrhea, and dizziness. Lotus leaf has also become popular for lowering blood lipids and treating liver conditions, such as jaundice. An active ingredient found in the lotus plant, called nuciferin, is also believed to help reduce muscle spasms. Other conditions that the lotus leaf has been used to treat include leprosy, parasites, ringworm, and sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis.
Lotus parts are prepared in many ways. For example, the leaves are often used fresh as a poultice, and lotus leaf extract is derived from the dried leaves. The flower petals and leaves are also commonly made into a mild tea, which is slightly bitter. They can be used as a garnish or added to soups as well.
Dried lotus leaf is available at many herbal stores. Additionally, the plant can be found in pill, powder, and capsule forms. Lotus is considered safe and has no known negative side effects.
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