Studies show that some of the compounds in lotus, like quercetin and catechin, may help prevent or mitigate these inflammatory pathways ( 13).Įxtracts from both the leaves and seeds of lotus may exhibit these anti-inflammatory properties ( 14). Macrophages secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are small proteins that signal immune responses ( 11, 12). Inflammatory processes in your body involve cells known as macrophages. Over time, inflammation can damage tissues and contribute to diseases like clogged arteries and heart disease, cancers, and diabetes ( 11, 12). The compounds in lotus may also have anti-inflammatory properties.Ĭhronic inflammation can result from a long-term infection, exposure to harmful substances, a poor diet, smoking, and a lack of exercise. Some studies suggest that these compounds can protect against diseases associated with oxidative stress, but more human research is needed. Many parts of the lotus plant are loaded with antioxidants. Still, more human studies on the antioxidant and disease-preventing effects of lotus are needed to better understand its potential benefits. One test-tube study found that the leaves, petals, and stamen - the pollen-producing part of the plant - had strong antioxidant activity and inhibited enzymes involved in Alzheimer’s disease ( 9). In particular, they may have anticancer effects, protect against Alzheimer’s disease, and prevent liver damage ( 8, 9, 10). While there’s limited research on the human health effects of consuming lotus, it’s thought that these antioxidant compounds might protect against diseases that stem from oxidative stress. The antioxidant activity of lotus appears to be most concentrated in its seeds and leaves ( 6, 7, 8). Some of the antioxidant compounds in lotus include kaempferol, catechin, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin. If free radicals build up in your body, they can cause oxidative stress, which damages cells and contributes to disease development ( 5). The lotus plant contains many flavonoid and alkaloid compounds that may act as antioxidants ( 4).Īntioxidants help neutralize reactive molecules known as free radicals. It’s used as a food, ornamental plant, and traditional medicine. Lotus is an aquatic plant mainly cultivated in Asia. Researchers are particularly interested in the plethora of beneficial compounds found in the plant, including flavonoids and alkaloids ( 4). Today, it’s studied for its possible health benefits. Lotus is available in many preparations, including dried root, teas, powders, capsules, and extracts. Lotus was used to treat diarrhea, infection, cough, high blood pressure, and fever, among other ailments ( 1, 2). They symbolize longevity, purity, and beauty in Buddhism and Hinduism, giving background to the nickname sacred lotus ( 2).Īdditionally, its stems, seeds, leaves, and flowers have long been used in traditional medicine preparations. Lotus flowers are popular ornamental plants in Asia. Its stem and roots are often added to soups and stir-fries, but its leaves, flowers, and seeds are also used in cooking ( 1, 2, 3). The lotus plant has been eaten as a food for 7,000 years in Asia. Its flowers can be white, pink, red, or blue. It grows in water and is often confused with water lilies, featuring a bowl shape with petals and green leaves. It’s cultivated in many parts of the world but especially in Asia, including India and Southeast Asia. It’s also called sacred lotus and Indian lotus. Lotus is scientifically known as Nelumbo nucifera.
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