Antioxidants help neutralize reactive molecules known as free radicals. If free radicals build up in your body, they can cause oxidative stress, which damages cells and contributes to disease development ( 5).

Nelumbo nucifera, also known as sacred lotus, Indian lotus, [1] or simply lotus, is one of two extant species of aquatic plant in the family Nelumbonaceae. It is sometimes colloquially called a water lily, though this more often refers to members of the family Nymphaeaceae. [2] This root is commonly used in Chinese and Japanese cuisines in salads, stir-fries, soups and stews. a b c d e f Tian, Daike (2008). Container production and post-harvest handling of Lotus (Nelumbo) and Micropropagation of herbaceous Peony (Paeonia). Auburn: Auburn University. The most widely used system is crop rotation with rice and vegetables. This system is applicable if the propagule (small piece of rhizome) can be planted early in the year. The rhizomes are harvested in July, after which rice can be planted in the same field. Rice is then harvested in October. From November until March, the field stays either free or terricolous vegetables, such as cabbage or spinach, are planted. Alternatively, the vegetable can also be planted after the harvest of the lotus. [40] Tsuchiya, T.; Nohara, S. (1989). "Growth and life span of the leaves of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. in lake Kasumigaura, Japan". Aquatic Botany. 36 (1): 87–95. doi: 10.1016/0304-3770(89)90094-6.Tian, Daike; Tilt, Ken M.; Sibley, Jeff L.; Woods, Floyd M.; Dane, Fenny (2009-06-01). "Response of Lotus ( Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) to Planting Time and Disbudding". HortScience. 44 (3): 656–659. doi: 10.21273/HORTSCI.44.3.656. Research published in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism indicates that apart from relieving constipation, consumption of dietary fiber helps reduce hunger, thereby reducing total energy intake and preventing weight gain. Lotus root is considered safe when it’s consumed as a food. When the seeds, leaves, flowers and root of the lotus plant are used to make medicine, there are some possible side effects to know about. The extra of this root in particular has been shown to inhibit“skin damage through suppression of collagenase production in vitro.” It’s also been found to possess anti-aging and anti-wrinkle effects. 2. Boosts Brain Health

When the lotus flower blooms and the plant reaches maturity, it breaks apart and released its seeds through the holds in the flower’s pod. Then the seeds link to the bottom of the muddy water and establish new lotus plants — beginning the cycle again. Lotus seeds are mostly oval or spherical, with sizes varying according to varieties. They are generally 1.2–1.8cm long, with diameters ranging from 0.8 to 1.4cm and a weight of 1.1–1.4 g. After lotus seeds have been decorticated and peeled, they are edible and rich in nutrients and can be dried for storage. Their nutritional values can differ due to culture environments and varieties. [88] Lotus is available in many preparations, including dried root, teas, powders, capsules, and extracts. Yoon, Carol Kaesuk (1996-10-01). "Heat of Lotus Attracts Insects And Scientists". The New York Times . Retrieved 2012-11-14. Another study showed that mice who received lotus seed extract experienced reduced blood sugar levels ( 18).In particular, they may have anticancer effects, protect against Alzheimer’s disease, and prevent liver damage ( 8, 9, 10). The Encyclopedia of Christianity, Volume 5 by Erwin Fahlbusch. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing – 2008. p. 285. ISBN 978-0-8028-2417-2. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid taking lotus supplements, as its possible side effects in these populations remain unknown. Summary