What is Lotus?

Lotus is found to grow in the pond water or stagnant water. Lotus has broad floating leaves and bright fragrant flowers which open in the morning and petals fall in the afternoon. Lotus has been valued as a religious symbol in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism from the time unknown and was also used in various religious ceremonies in older times as a form of ornament. Lotus represents long life, honor and fortune.

The each and every part of Lotus is valuable as either source of food and as a source of herbal medicines. The various parts of Lotus are used in steamed buns, stir-fry, desserts and other dishes. The Lotus flower is known to have distinctive scent and flavor for adding to the dishes. The Lotus roots are rich in nutrients like vitamin C, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6, Copper, Potassium and Dietary Fibers, etc. The medicinal uses of Lotus are as an Astringent, in treatment of Sexual Functions, Insomnia, Dysentery, Fever, Vomiting as well as Kidney, Spleen, Liver & Heart disorders and many more.

Cultivation: - Lotus is mostly propagated through seeds but can also be grown through tubers in damp soil. Lotus plant should be protected from Freezing and should receive sufficient sunlight. Lotus cannot live without water but can also be grown in bowls or containers by following the various essential cultivation tips.

Lotus is the National Flower of India and Vietnam. The various other names of Lotus which are prevalent in different parts of the world are Water Lily, Blue Lotus, Bean of India, Suriya Kamal, Kamal, etc.