Some years ago, a friend in Tokyo sent me three seeds of the lotus flower, Nelumbo nucifera. Fearing that I would make too much of a fuss of them, she waited until after I had succeeded in germinating ... This comprehensive review systematically examines the multifarious aspects of Nelumbo nucifera, elucidating its ecological, nutritional, medicinal, and biomimetic significance.

Understanding the Context

Nelumbo nucifera, commonly known as the Sacred Lotus, Indian Lotus, or simply Lotus, is a breathtaking aquatic perennial celebrated for its striking, large flowers and iconic round leaves that float serenely on water surfaces. sacred lotus, (Nelumbo nucifera), attractive edible aquatic plant of the lotus-lily family (Nelumbonaceae) found in tropical and subtropical Asia. Life history: Nelumbo nucifera can grow up to 10 m in a year by vegetative spread from rhizomes. Flowers and fruits are observed from June to October, and take 5-6 years to reach maturity.

Key Insights

Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), containing commonly edible parts (root and seed), and other parts as byproducts (leaf, flower, stalk, etc.), are abundant in polyphenols, alkaloids and anthocyanin possessing excellent antioxidant capacities validated by scientific studies.