Blue Lotus Stems Vs. Blue Lotus Flowers

Growing Conditions

• The lotus usually grows in shallow waters by anchoring its roots in the mud, then sending stems toward the surface. The leaves float on the water's surface while white, pink, blue, red and purple flowers rise above. Opening one petal at a time, the flowers are only open during daylight hours, giving rise to the ancient Egyptian belief that the lotus gave birth to the sun. After the lotus finishes blooming, the petals fall off and give way to seed pods which eventually become heavy enough to dip back into the water. There they release their seeds and begin the cycle again.

Food

• All parts of the lotus plant are edible and widely used as a food source in India and many parts of Asia. While the flower petals are often used as garnishes, the leaves are used to wrap a variety of foods. The lotus seeds are well-liked in northeastern India while the stems, both fresh and pickled, are eaten throughout the subcontinent.

Medicinal Uses

• While both the stems and flowers of the blue lotus were once believed to produce a psychotic state, research conducted by Dr. Lisa Manniche, Egyptologist University of Copenhagen, shows that the blue lotus contains no narcotic substances. Used in a variety of oils, the lotus essence supposedly lessens anxiety and helps in meditation. Lotus essence also cleanses the system by releasing emotions that can cause pain, according to a 2002 Newsfinder article.

Lotus Fibers

• While both blue lotus flowers and stems are edible and used in herbal remedies, only the stem is used in the production of fabrics. The weaving of lotus fiber is common in Cambodia and the yarn produced from the plant is in demand for religious robes used in Buddhist and Hindu ceremonies as well as fine blazers and skirts sold in exclusive shops in Tokyo.