Sacred lotus | Description, Edible, Uses, Symbolism, & Facts (2024)

FAQs

What is sacred lotus used for? ›

Historically, the sacred lotus has been used for medicinal purposes as Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine [1]. In Thailand, the sacred lotus has cultural importance as spiritual a symbol in Buddhism, and economic importance as ornamentation and horticulture to generate income.

Lotus is frequently pictured as the throne of Gods and is frequently used in worship and religious rituals. It has air gaps in its long stems, and rhizomes perform the roles of roots. Lotus has a metaphorical meaning that includes divinity, fertility, riches, knowledge, and enlightenment.

Because lotuses rise from the mud without stains, they are often viewed as a symbol of purity. Since they return to the murky water each evening and open their blooms at the break of day, lotus flowers are also symbols of strength, resilience, and rebirth.

In fact the whole sacred lotus plant is edible. The boiled young leaves are eaten as a vegetable and are common as a wrap for rice and steamed dishes. Even the stamens of the lotus are used, for flavouring tea, and the dried petals are also used to make tea.

First and foremost, the lotus has a life cycle unlike any other plant. With its roots latched in mud, it submerges every night into river water and miraculously re-blooms the next morning, sparklingly clean. As a result, this has led the lotus to have associations as the flower with rebirth and spiritual enlightenment.

· Dec 26, 2021. The lotus is a mystical, ancient flower. It is native to Asia and Australia, and it is no ordinary plant. It seems to have super powers most other plants do not. For example, the lotus is able to regulate the temperature of its flowers much like warm blooded animals regulate their body temperature.

The lotus is a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and rebirth in many cultures. The lotus is known for its ability to grow in muddy water yet emerge pristine and beautiful, making it a powerful symbol of spiritual growth, transformation, and purity.

Lotus flowers are popular ornamental plants in Asia. They symbolize longevity, purity, and beauty in Buddhism and Hinduism, giving background to the nickname sacred lotus ( 2 ). Additionally, its stems, seeds, leaves, and flowers have long been used in traditional medicine preparations.

In Buddhism the lotus symbol is so significant that it's one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism, it appears as both solar and lunar and is associated with many Gods and Goddesses. The lotus symbolizes the human Spiritual potential of transformation to the True (Divine) Self.

What is the divine lotus symbol? ›

The lotus is primarily a symbol of purity, and in Japan, it is revered for its ability to emerge from dirty, muddy water and blossom into a beautiful flower. It is most often associated with the attainment of Buddhist enlightenment and is a very popular symbol that symbolizes living life to the fullest.

For Christianity, the white blossoms of the lotus represent purity and creation, specifically God's creation of the universe. Similar to how the lotus rises from the murky depths of mud, this religion states that God brought creation, light and beauty out of the dark and empty space.

Lotus seeds may be used to relieve pain, manage weight and reduce blood sugar levels. It may be used to reduce depression and anxiety. Lotus seeds can be used for microbial infections, cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, lotus seeds can be used to protect the liver.

The edible part of the lotus plant is the root, seeds, and young flower stalks. When the lotus seeds inside the seed head are green, they can be eaten raw as they are sweet. When the seeds become brown, they can be made into a paste or ground into flour for baking.

Excessive consumption of lotus seed may lead to constipation, flatulence and bloating. So in case you are already constipated, do not consume it under any circ*mstances. If the patients are already on treatment, they should consult their physician before consuming lotus seeds as they are anti-arrhythmic.

The flower, seed, leaf, and underground stem are used as medicine. Lotus contains chemicals that seem to breakdown fat tissue. These effects might help with weight loss. It also contains flavonoids, such as quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory effects.

In Buddhism, the lotus is associated with purity, spiritual awakening, and faithfulness. The flower is considered pure as it is able to emerge from murky waters in the morning and be perfectly clean. It is also known to symbolize purity of speech, of the body, and of the mind.

Spiritual Symbolism: Vastu experts consider the lotus flower a symbol of spirituality. Placing a lotus plant in the house is thought to bring happiness, prosperity, and alleviate sorrows, especially when positioned at the centre of the house.