The amazing uses of lotus

The lotus flower is also known as *lien* or *quy*. The lotus is an aquatic plant with a cylindrical rhizome growing in the mud, commonly called lotus root or *ngau tiet*, which is edible.

The leaves (called lotus leaves) rise above the water's surface, with long petioles and small thorns. The corolla consists of many petals, pink or partially white. The connective tissue extends into a long, white part often called lotus rice, used to flavor tea. Many separate carpels are contained within a flared, inverted cone-shaped receptacle called the lotus seed pod or lotus chamber. Each carpel contains 1-2 ovules. The fruit (commonly called lotus seed) contains a single seed (lotus flesh). The two cotyledons are thick, and the embryo (lotus heart) consists of 4 young leaves folded inwards.

Application

Lotus flowers, leaves, roots, and seeds... can all be easily processed into dishes that are not only delicious but also have medicinal properties.

- Dried lotus leaves, finely chopped, are used to cook porridge with sugar. They have a cooling effect, treat colds and fevers, sunstroke, help lower blood pressure, and reduce blood cholesterol. The extract from lotus leaves can treat dyslipidemia, improve blood circulation, and boost overall health.

- Lotus root is rich in protein and vitamin C, which helps improve blood circulation, reduce fever, enhance cardiovascular and digestive functions, and reduce bruising caused by blood clots under the skin.

- Lotus seeds stimulate appetite, improve nutrient absorption, nourish the mind, increase blood circulation, promote restful sleep, and aid in health recovery.

- Lotus seeds have a bitter taste and a cooling nature. They are used to clear the heart, lower blood pressure, and stop bleeding. They are used to treat symptoms such as dizziness, insomnia, palpitations, rapid heartbeat, chronic heart and lung disease, hemoptysis, and improve myocardial ischemia by dilating blood vessels, reducing myocardial oxygen consumption, and improving coronary artery circulation. Steeping 4-10 grams of dried lotus seeds in boiling water daily is very effective in treating insomnia.

- For myocardial ischemia (also known as coronary insufficiency) - commonly seen in atherosclerosis. This condition is frequently seen in the elderly and those with lipid disorders. According to folk remedies, lotus flowers and white ixora flowers with rock sugar are used for myocardial ischemia as follows: take 10 grams each of lotus flowers and white ixora flowers, wash them gently, and add 2 grams of rock sugar and a little clean water to a bowl placed in a rice cooker just after the water has evaporated. Take it out and consume it after lunch and dinner.

According to Thanh Nien - PC