The lotus plant is known for its diverse therapeutic properties, and its different components possess unique characteristics that target specific health issues. Today, we will discuss five different lotus components used in Acupuncture and herbal medicine: Lian Zi (Nelumbinis Semen), Ou Jie (Nelumbinis Nodus rhizomatis), Lian Xu (Nelumbinis Stamen), He Ye (Nelumbinis Folium), and Qian Shi (Euryales Semen). We will explore their temperature, taste, channels, actions, and various health benefits.
A. Lian Zi (Nelumbinis Semen)
Lian Zi, the seed of the lotus plant, is known for its ability to strengthen the spleen, stop diarrhea, tonify the kidneys, and nourish the heart. It also has immune-boosting, anti-aging, and liver-protecting properties. Lian Zi has been shown to increase T-lymphocyte levels in rat studies, suggesting its potential for immune enhancement. Moreover, it has been found to extend the lifespan of fruit flies and reduce their lipid peroxidation levels, indicating anti-aging properties. Lian Zi's ethanol extract demonstrates hepatoprotective effects against chemically-induced liver damage and inhibits aflatoxin B1-induced hepatotoxicity.
B. Ou Jie (Nelumbinis Nodus rhizomatis)
C. Lian Xu (Nelumbinis Stamen)
Lian Xu, the lotus stamen, is known for its ability to clear the heart, stop bleeding, stabilize the kidneys, and secure essence. It has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Lian Xu's ethanol extract inhibits ear and paw edema in mice and increases the latency of tail-flick response in heat-induced pain. Additionally, it has been found to prevent diarrhea, suppress gastric ulcer formation, inhibit blood clot formation, and exhibit estrogen-like effects in animal studies.
D. He Ye (Nelumbinis Folium)
He Ye, the lotus leaf, is known for its ability to clear summer heat, raise and clear spleen yang, and stop bleeding. It has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, improve hemorheological parameters, and exhibit antioxidant and anti-aging effects. He Ye's water extract has antimicrobial properties against a wide range of microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and various fungi and yeasts.
E. Qian Shi (Euryales Semen)
It is not lotus, but fox nut. Qian Shi and Lian Zi share similar properties and functions in TCM. Both tonify the spleen and kidneys, astringe essence, and stop discharge. However, Qian Shi is more effective at eliminating dampness and treating deficiency disorders with dampness, such as vaginal discharge. Qian Shi's actions include strengthening the spleen, stopping diarrhea, tonifying the kidneys, and securing the essence.