Lotus seed (Nelumbo nucifera)
Synopsis
Lotus seeds come from the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), a revered aquatic plant native to Asia. The seeds, harvested from the mature lotus pod, are smooth, white or light brown in color, and have been valued in traditional medicine, culinary practice, and spiritual ritual for thousands of years. They are rich in complex carbohydrates, protein, magnesium, potassium, iron, and beneficial compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins. In herbal medicine, both the whole seed and the seed embryo (called "Lian Xin") are used for different effects.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), lotus seed (Lian Zi) is classified as a tonic herb that strengthens the Spleen, stabilizes the Kidneys, and nourishes the Heart. It is used to support digestion, treat chronic diarrhea, calm anxiety, and tonify reproductive health. Lotus seed is especially noted for its ability to "secure essence"—making it a common remedy for premature ejaculation, leucorrhea, and other signs of kidney deficiency.
The inner green embryo (Lian Xin) has a more bitter taste and is used to clear Heart heat, calm the spirit (Shen), and help with insomnia, irritability, and palpitations—especially when emotional disturbance stems from an internal heat imbalance.
Lotus seeds are also a staple in functional nutrition and longevity diets, included in soups, congees, and desserts. Their low glycemic index and high nutrient density make them suitable for metabolic and cardiovascular support.
Historical Use:
Lotus seeds have been cultivated and consumed since ancient times, especially in China, India, and Southeast Asia, where the lotus plant is a symbol of purity, spiritual awakening, and immortality. In Ayurveda, lotus seeds (Kamal gatta) are used to pacify pitta and vata doshas, support fertility, and promote calmness. They are sometimes offered in spiritual rituals and used in malas (prayer beads) to enhance mental focus and inner peace.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, references to Lian Zi appear in the Shennong Bencao Jing and subsequent classic texts, where the herb was prescribed for building resilience, nourishing essence (jing), and calming the mind. Lotus seed was considered especially valuable for individuals recovering from chronic illness or weakness, and for those dealing with emotional disturbance, poor sleep, or digestive fragility.
In cuisine, lotus seeds were traditionally used in sweet soups, mooncakes, and medicinal porridges, particularly among the elderly or convalescent. The belief in lotus seed as a life-extending food is reflected in its inclusion in ceremonial and festive dishes.
Today, lotus seeds are available as dried or cooked snacks, herbal powders, capsules, and tea ingredients. They are embraced both in traditional herbal formulations and modern functional food applications for nervous system support, gut health, sleep, and reproductive vitality.
Body Systems
Digestive System (Science)
Glandular System (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (Science)
Sympathetic Nervous System (Science)