The blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) is a blue water lily. The blue lotus flower is also known as the Egyptian lotus. This plant grows on the edges of lakes and rivers. This water plant is found in the Nile region as well as in South Africa and China. The ancient Egyptians considered the water lily a sacred plant. The blue and white lotuses were the most important ritual plants of ancient Egypt. The flowers were worn in the hair of the living and the dead and were an important element in Egyptian art.
Nefertem, the god of the blue water lily, offered the flower as an offering to the sun god Ra to ease the pain of his old body. The pleasant scent of the plant was much appreciated, but its healing properties were also special. There are many images of women holding the flower and sniffing the scent of the blue water lily. Today it is believed that the plant was also used as a recreational drug by soaking it in wine (= soaking with a liquid).
Effects
The Blue Lotus is a nice relaxing agent. The effects are subtle and balanced. The Blue Lotus also has a narcotic effect, which significantly reduces stress and anxiety! Stress has an effect on the stomach. Blue Lotus calms these feelings, which reduces stomach / intestinal ailments.
The leaves of the Blue Lotus also lower blood sugar. People who regularly eat the raw leaves or make a tea or even a tincture naturally lower the sugar level in the blood. Blue lotus also reduces cholesterol levels. This does not mean that Blue Lotus helps if you are overweight. It just means that if you’re already doing something to lower your cholesterol, you could try this plant too.
Blue Lotus also contains vitamin B, which ensures a better state of mind and a general well-being of body and mind. In addition, the L-carotene vitamin stimulates your metabolism, which helps your body process food. Thanks to its positive effects on the immune system, it also helps relieve infections and rashes.
Use
You can make tea from the Blue Lotus. Then put about 5 grams in hot water. For the traditional Egyptian drink, soak the plant in wine for several hours. Use about 5 grams per bottle. Do not use too much: Blue lotus makes the wine bitter and difficult to drink.