Lotus Root – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com
Tuesday, August 29, 2017 by Jhoanna Robinson
http://www.naturalpedia.com/lotus-root-sources-health-benefits-nutrients-uses-and-constituents-at-naturalpedia-com.html
Lotus, which has the scientific name Nelumbo nucifera, is India’s and Vietnam’s national flower. In fact, lotus carries with it much significance to various cultural and religious practices in Asia.
Each lotus root has a smooth, gray-white tube that is around 10 to 20 centimeters in length and three to seven cm in diameter. It has a crunchy flesh and has a sweet, water-chestnut-like flavor. The cut sections show an aesthetic display of symmetrically-arranged air canals that fill the length of the root.
List of known nutrients
- Dietary Fiber
- Potassium
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
- Vitamin C
Medicinal uses for lotus root
Lotus root is a good food fare for reducing cholesterol levels in the body. This is due to its adequate niacin content.
Lotus root is good for the skin. In today’s world full of pollution, stress, and the negative effects of cosmetics, we need something to replenish our body’s lipids and rejuvenate its dead skin cells. Lotus root stimulates the development of collagen, which is necessary to prevent skin sagging and the development of age spots, fine lines, and sunspots.
It keeps skin bright, radiant, and hydrated and prevents dryness, paleness, and a lackluster pallor. It also keeps oil levels in your skin normal, thereby poreventing acne and pimple breakouts.
Lotus root is good for the hair. It can address hair fall and hair loss, conditions it to give it that natural shine, and prevents hair breakage. It keeps hair thick and prevents brittleness. It also prevents premature hair graying, as lotus essential oil simulates melanin synthesis in the hair, which is the process the hair needs to have color.
Lotus root has anti-inflammatory properties. It can serve as treatment for skin inflammations and rectal prolapse, or the protrusion of either the rectal mucosa or the entire wall of the rectum.
Lotus root is good for weight-watchers.
Body systems supported by lotus root
Lotus root is good for the circulatory system. It improves blood circulation. The riboflavin in lotus roots is responsible for energy generation and red blood cell health.
Lotus root is good for the muscular system. Its vitamin C content is essential in the development of collagen, a structural protein in the body that promotes blood vessel, bone, organ, and skin health.
Lotus root is good for the cardiovascular system. Its potassium acts as a deterrent of the activities of sodium-rich foods, which are to constrict blood vessels, and block the flow of blood, therefore increasing the pressure on the heart to pump more blood. Potassium as a vasodilator relaxes the blood vessels, ensuring that there is ample flow of blood to and from the heart.
Lotus root is good for the digestive system. It hardens stool, which ensures that your bowel movements are easy and regular and helps prevent instances of constipation and hemorrhoids. It also prevents instances of diarrhea. Its rich fiber content also aids in peristalsis and the release of gastric juices that help food move easily through the digestive tract, break it down, and absorb its nutrients.
Lotus root is good for the nervous system. Its pyridoxine content increases your wellbeing and affects brain cells to promote mental stability. It also reduces your stress and irritability levels and lessen instances of headaches. This is why the lotus has been a symbol of peace and tranquility throughout the years. It is recommended that you add lotus root to your diet if life is bringing you down.
Lotus root is good for the ocular system. Its vitamin A is responisble for keeping your good vision intact and protecting you from age-related eye disorders like macular degeneration and cataract formation.
Lotus root is good for the immune and respiratory systems. It can be brewed into a hot tea to alleviate cough and melt mucus in the phlegm. It can also ease the symptoms of respiratory diseases such as asthma and tuberculosis.
Ways to use lotus root
Lotus root tastes like coconut but has a similar texture to potatoes. Most of the time, it is pickled and is used as salad topping or is incorporated to prawn dishes to heighten their flavor.
Where to learn more
Summary
Lotus root is good for the muscular, cardiovascular, digestive, nervous, ocular, immune, and respiratory systems.
Lotus root is good for the skin and hair.
Lotus root has anti-inflammatory properties.
Sources include:
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