Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)

The Lotus flower, India’s national flower, is also known as “Kamal” or “Padmini.^(HR/1)

” It is a holy plant that represents divine beauty and purity. The leaves, seeds, flowers, fruit, and rhizomes of Lotus are all edible and have been proved to have medicinal properties. Dried Lotus flowers have been used in traditional medicine to treat bleeding disorders, particularly significant blood loss during heavy menstruation. It also aids in the treatment of diarrhoea by lowering the frequency with which one passes faeces. Applying a paste of Lotus petals or Lotus seed oil to the skin, according to Ayurveda, moisturises and rejuvenates the skin. Excessive ingestion of any component of the Lotus – petals, blossoms, seed, etc. – must be avoided.It’s possible that it’ll induce digestive issues including gas and constipation.

Lotus is also known as :- Nelumbo nucifera, Abja, Aravinda, Padma, Kalhara, Sitopala, Pankaja, Podum, Padma Phool, Salaphool, Kamal, Kanwal, Tavare, Naidile, Tavaregedd, Tamara, Venthamara, Chenthamara, Senthamara, Komala, Pamposh, Tamarai, Thamaraipoo, Aravindan, Paduman, Kamalam, Sarojam, Kaluva, Tamarapuvow

Lotus is obtained from :- Plant

Uses and benefits of Lotus:-

As per several scientific studies, uses and benefits of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) are mentioned as per below^(HR/2)

• Bleeding : Lotus has been used in traditional medicine to treat bleeding conditions such as uterine haemorrhage. Furthermore, it includes phytochemicals with anticoagulant properties. This could help with blood clotting issues by getting rid of stagnant blood.
  Lotus can aid with piles and heavy bleeding during the menstrual period. This is owing to its astringent (Kashya) quality. When given internally, it stops bleeding. Lotus also aids with menstruation flow and helps to lessen the amount of blood lost during each cycle. Tips: 2. Measure 2 tablespoons dried Lotus flower. 2. Mix in 500 mL of water. 3. Bring to a boil for at least 10 to 15 minutes, then drain. 4. Take it once or twice a day to help with bleeding problems.
• Diarrhea : Lotus’ anti-enteropooling (preventing fluid collection in the small intestine) and antispasmodic properties may be beneficial in the treatment of diarrhoea. It decreases faeces frequency, faecal matter moisture, and fluid buildup in the small intestine.
  In Ayurveda, diarrhoea is referred to as Atisar. It is caused by poor nutrition, contaminated water, pollutants, mental tension, and Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). All of these variables contribute to the aggravation of Vata. This worsened Vata draws fluid into the gut from numerous body tissues and mixes it with the excrement. This causes loose, watery bowel movements or diarrhoea. Taking Lotus during diarrhoea aids the body’s ability to retain water or liquids. This is due to its Grahi (absorbent) feature, which helps to regulate stool frequency. 1. Take 2 tablespoons of dried Lotus flower powder. 2. Mix in 500 mL of water. 3. Bring to a boil for at least 10 to 15 minutes, then drain. 4. To control diarrhoea, drink it once or twice a day.
• Indigestion : Lotus can help with indigestion and other digestive disorders. This is because alkaloids with antispasmodic properties are present.

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Precautions to be taken while using Lotus:-

As per several scientific studies, below precautions should to be taken while taking Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)^(HR/3)

• Lotus may increase the risk of bleeding. So it is generally advised to consult your doctor while taking Lotus with anticoagulants, NSAIDS and anti inflammatory drugs.

Special precautions to be taken while taking Lotus:-

As per several scientific studies, below special precautions should to be taken while taking Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)^(HR/4)

• Breastfeeding : If you’re breastfeeding, don’t take Lotus.
• Patients with diabetes : Lotus has been shown to lower blood sugar levels. As a result, while taking Lotus with antidiabetic medications, it is generally recommended that you monitor your blood sugar level.
  Lotus has been shown to lower blood sugar levels. As a result, it is generally recommended that you monitor your blood sugar levels while taking Lotus with anti-diabetic medications.
• Patients with heart disease : 1. Lotus has anti-arrhythmic properties. As a result, while using Lotus with anti-arrhythmic medicines, it’s usually a good idea to keep an eye on your heart rate. 2. Lotus has been shown to lower blood pressure. As a result, while taking Lotus with anti-hypertensive medications, it is typically recommended that you monitor your blood pressure.
• Pregnancy : Lotus should be avoided during pregnancy.

How to take Lotus:-

As per several scientific studies, Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) can be taken into the methods mentioned as per below^(HR/5)

• Lotus root Chips : Pre to heat the microwave oven to 300 to 325 F. Peel off the skin of Lotus origins with a vegetable peeler. Slice right into thin roots. Combine the sliced roots with two teaspoon oil, black pepper, salt as well as sesame oil in bowl. Mix well until all the items are evenly covered with oil and seasonings.
• Lotus Seeds (dried) or Makhana : Take dried Lotus seeds or Makhana as per your requirement. Roast them slightly in Ghee. Take ideally prior to meals.
• Lotus extract capsule : Take one to two capsule of Lotus extract capsule. Swallow it with water one to two times a day.
• Lotus Flower Paste : Take half to one teaspoon of Lotus blossom paste. Add honey to it. Apply evenly on the affected area. Let it sit for sometime. Use this treatment one to two times a day to manage blood loss.
• Lotus Seed Paste : Take one to two teaspoon of Lotus seed paste. Add climbed water to it. Apply equally on the impacted area. Let it rest for four to five minutes. Wash thoroughly with fresh water. Use this remedy two to three times a day to remove skin troubles, including acne as well as swelling.
• Lotus Cream : Take Lotus lotion according to your requirement. Apply on the skin once or twice a day to get rid of skin issues like acne and blemishes.
• Lotus Oil : Take four to five drops of Lotus oil or as per your requirement. Mix with honey as well as apply carefully on the skin specifically on the cheeks, temple, and neck. Repeat once or twice a day to take care of dry skin.

How much Lotus should be taken:-

As per several scientific studies, Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) should be taken into the amounts mentioned as per below^(HR/6)

• Lotus Capsule : One to two capsules twice a day.
• Lotus Cream : Use twice a day as per your requirement.
• Lotus Oil : Two to five drops or as per your requirement.

Side effects of Lotus:-

As per several scientific studies, below side effects need to be taken into consideration while taking Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)^(HR/7)

• Hypersensitivity
• Flatulence
• Constipation
• Stomach distention

Questions asked frequently Related to the Lotus:-

Question. Can you eat raw Lotus root?

Answer. Lotus roots should not be eaten uncooked since they are bitter and astringent. This is because tannins are present in it. Cooking decreases the bitterness, thus it tastes best cooked.

To treat diarrhoea and dysentery, Lotus roots can be steamed or boiled. Due to its Kashaya (astringent) quality, it aids in better digestion.

Question. Can you freeze Lotus root?

Answer. Lotus root may be frozen and cooked without having to defrost it first. Cutting them into slices and freezing them in the refrigerator is a fantastic idea.

Question. Is Lotus root a starchy vegetable?

Answer. The texture of Lotus root, which is a tuber, is dense, crunchy, and starchy. Soups and stir-fried foods contain it.

Question. Can you eat the Lotus flower?

Answer. In Ayurvedic medicine, all parts of the Lotus plant are employed. It works as a heart, liver, and skin tonic. It lowers the symptoms of diarrhoea and bleeding disorders while balancing an inflamed Pitta. Due to its Sita (chill) and Kashaya (astringent) qualities, this is the case.

Question. What are the two different types of Lotus?

Answer. Lotus comes in two varieties: Kamal and Kumud. Kamal, also called as ‘Rakta Kamala,’ has pink or reddish-pink flowers. Kumud, also known as ‘Pundarika’ or ‘Sveta Kamala,’ has white flowers.

Question. Can Lotus seed cause allergy?

Answer. Lotus seeds do not produce an allergic reaction. Due to the presence of a molecule called kaempferol, studies suggest that it is used to treat some allergic reactions. Immunoglobulin E-mediated allergy responses are inhibited.

Lotus seeds do not induce allergic reactions. These seeds, also known as Lotus Nuts or Makhana, are edible seeds (when dried). However, if you have any gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation, it can make things worse. This is owing to its astringent and absorbent Kashaya and Garhi characteristics.

Question. Is Lotus root good for you?

Answer. Lotus root extract is advantageous to your health because it has a lot of beneficial elements. It has a high amount of antioxidants, which protect cells from oxidative damage and contribute to its hepatoprotective properties. It also possesses diuretic and astringent properties, which could help with obesity management. Lotus root extract is also high in alkaloids, which can help with irregular heartbeat, strength, and sexual function. It may also be beneficial in the treatment of diabetes, infertility, and urinary tract infections.

Question. Is Lotus good for weight loss?

Answer. Yes, Lotus could help you lose weight. This is due to the anti-obesity properties of Lotus leaves, rhizome, and seeds. It reduces fat and carbohydrate absorption, boosts lipid metabolism, and lowers energy expenditure by inhibiting the activity of specific digestive enzymes.

Question. What are the benefits of eating Lotus seeds?

Answer. Lotus seeds can be eaten as popcorn (makhane) or used to make bread powder. Protein, carbs, and important minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium are all present, making them good for heart and liver health. Lotus seeds contain compounds that protect cells from harm, boost the immune system, and combat bacterial and viral diseases. They’re also beneficial for weight loss.

The Grahi (absorbent) quality of Lotus seeds aids in the management of digestive issues such as diarrhoea and dysentery. Lotus seeds, with their Sita (cool) and Kashaya (astringent) characteristics, are also used to prevent excessive bleeding during piles. It also increases sexual stamina and lowers the risk of infertility issues.

Question. What are the health benefits of Lotus root?

Answer. Lotus root contains a variety of nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and fibre, which provide numerous health benefits. It aids in weight loss, acid reflux or indigestion, improved immunity, pile control, and inflammation healing. It also helps with stress management by improving blood circulation and heart health.

Due to its Kashaya (astringent) quality, Lotus roots aid in the management of digestive issues such as diarrhoea and dysentery. It aids in the prevention of excessive water loss. Because to its Sita (cold) character, it also aids in the management of bleeding in piles.

Question. Can Lotus help relieve inflammation?

Answer. Lotus does, in fact, aid to reduce inflammation due to the presence of anti-inflammatory chemical components. These ingredients help to alleviate inflammation by soothing irritated tissues. Lotus is used to treat haemorrhoids because of this feature.

Inflammation is a condition that happens when the Pitta dosha is out of equilibrium. It’s frequent in some circumstances, such as piles. Lotus’ Sita (chill) and Pitta (heat) balancing characteristics aid in the management of inflammation.

Question. Does Lotus help lower high cholesterol?

Answer. Lotus leaves, because to the presence of certain components, can help lower high cholesterol levels (flavonoids). These components assist manage cholesterol levels by lowering bad cholesterol (LDL low-density lipoprotein), total cholesterol, and triglycerides in the body while increasing good cholesterol (HDL high-density lipoprotein).

An imbalance of Pachak Agni causes high cholesterol (digestive fire). Ama is produced when tissue digestion is hampered (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This leads to an accumulation of harmful cholesterol and blood vessel obstruction. Lotus’ Lekhan (scrapping) property aids in the management of this illness by eliminating Ama (toxin left in the body owing to incorrect digestion).

Question. Is Lotus useful for liver disorders like fatty liver?

Answer. Lotus leaves, which contain specific phytoconstituents, are effective in liver problems such as fatty liver. These phytoconstituents act by regulating a protein hormone called adiponectin, which aids in the digestion of complex fats and sugars.

Fatty liver is a disease caused by a lack of Agnimandya (digestive fire), which causes indigestion and appetite loss. Lotus, with its (Laghu) light, Kashaya (astringent), and Balya (strength provider) qualities, helps to treat this condition and improve liver functions.

Question. Is Lotus flower good for skin?

Answer. Yes, Lotus flower extract has been shown to be effective in skin whitening and anti-wrinkle treatments. It prevents the generation of melanin (which darkens the skin) and wrinkles by inhibiting the enzymes that cause them.

Question. Does Lotus prevents premature greying of hair?

Answer. Lotus oil, by promoting the formation of melanin, may help to prevent hair from greying.

SUMMARY

” It is a holy plant that represents divine beauty and purity. The leaves, seeds, flowers, fruit, and rhizomes of Lotus are all edible and have been proved to have medicinal properties.