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Nelumbo nucifera
Uses: The sacred lotus of hindu and buddhist tradition; seeds (hard nuts) and roots (tuberous rhizomes) are widely used as food. All parts of Lotus are used in traditional chinese medicine and in ayurvedic medicine in India. The seed is used to tonify the spleen, treat diarrhea, and arrest seminal emission, heart palpitation, and insomnia. Young cotyledons from sprouting seed used similarly, to calm nerves. Dried seed pods (receptacle) used to stop bleeding. Flower stamens used to stop frequent urination. Dried leaf tea used to reduce fevers, stop bleeding (caused by “heat” in blood). Rhizomes used in prescriptions to slow abnormal uterine bleeding. The alkaloid nuciferine stimulates insulin secretion, lending credence to traditional use as an antidiabetic. Anti-inflammatory, liver-protectant, immuno-stimulating, antioxidant, anti-obesity,and antidepressant effects are among activities reported from research since 2000, Includes numerous alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, triterpenoids, and other compounds that may contribute to pharmacological activity.
