One of the most beautiful plant on earth is Lotus. Flowers are used in offerings as it is symbol of purity that arises from water. Lotus is perennial plant and there are many species of lotus that are used for medicinal purposes in different religions and traditions. Lotus petals, stem, seed and root – all provide many health benefits. Apart from medicinal benefits, lotus root is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine.

Lotus root which is a rhizome and the stem are source of different vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Iron, Potassium, Copper, Zinc and Thiamin. It also provides good dietary fiber and protein. Presence of these ingredients in lotus helps us to boost energy by strengthening our immune system.

• It is good for blood circulation
• Regulates blood pressure
• Improves digestion
• Improves heart health
• Improves skin texture

Benefits of lotus roots, seeds, stems and petals:

• Lotus root contains nutrients and antioxidants that helps to nourish nerves, moves bowel, removes blood stagnation and stops bleeding. It also helps to relieve diarrhea, nourishes skin and circulatory system.
• Lotus root juice with ginger helps to reduce intestine inflammation. It reduces bleeding in stool and prevents it as well. Lotus juice helps to dispel pathogenic heat and relieves thirstiness.
• Lotus root paste: Dry lotus root paste prepared in boiling water can be used as meal to control stool bleeding, diarrhea and digestive system problems.
• Lotus root soup with white gourd – relives urinary bleeding. Lotus root has a taste that is somewhat like potato. It contains lesser amount of carbohydrate and more fiber. It can be a good nutrition source for people who have high blood sugar level.
• Lotus roots known to contain pyridoxine compound. The pyridoxine content in lotus known to influence central nervous system positively. While the flower and leaves are symbol of peace and tranquility, the root that contains pyridoxine helps to reduce the stress, irritability, headache and anxiety.
• Potassium is present in significant amount in lotus root – it helps to balance the blood pressure.
• Lotus root  can be used for hair wash with shikhakai – it helps to reduce the roughness of hair and increases strength and elasticity of brittle hair.
• Reduces edema and water retention: Potassium content in lotus roots helps to bring balance in sodium and acts as diuretic. Thus, it prevents excess water retention in legs and body.
• Lotus root tea helps to relief cough and mucus. It is a recommended remedy for respiratory problems.
• Lotus seeds are helpful in controlling diarrhea. Soak lotus seeds in warm water for few hours, add rock sugar and consuming helps to bring the system back to normalcy
• Lotus stem which contains vitamin C is a good ingredient in pickles and curries.
• Lotus petals with green tea helps to control acne. Petal paste applied on acne, pimple, scars and marks and to enhance skin health.
• Lotus acts as a moisturizing agent and prevents dehydration of skin. Both petals and stem are good remedy for dry and flaky skin.

• Lotus stem and root known to reduce body inflammation. In Ayurveda leaf paste is recommended for treating skin inflammation and fever.
• Good for weight loss: Presence of dietary fiber both in stem and root makes lotus a good ingredient for dieting. It keeps stomach full for longer time.
• Lotus stem contains good amount of iron and helps to increase energy levels
• Beautiful leaves of lotus are a good remedy for bleeding disorders, excessive sweating and fever.
• Stem, root and seeds are known to enhance both male and female fertility. Lotus herbal preparation in Ayurveda is used for strengthening uterus and in preventing miscarriages.
• Lotus seeds are sweet to taste – tea from lotus seeds acts as body coolant and they are aphrodisiacs!
• Entire lotus plant parts preparations are used to strengthen brain, to improve sleep quality and is a remedy for insomnia.
• Lotus seed oil is an ingredient for mental related problems, it activates crown chakra (Yogic benefit), helps to sleep better and is an ingredient in medicines to cure skin problems.

Precautions:

Lotus roots should not be consumed by pregnant women.