Blue lotus tea, made by steeping the flower blossoms of the blue lotus plant (Nymphaea caerulea), has been revered for over thousands of years for its benefits to body and spirit.
The use of blue lotus can be traced back to ancient Egypt and we can see the flower represented in the artwork of the time. In ancient Egyptian culture, blue lotus held cultural and religious value for its sacred and mystical properties. It was used in religious ceremonies and rituals for its ability to induce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and higher levels of spiritual awareness and connection. It was also considered to be an aphrodisiac.
The benefits and uses of blue lotus are MANY. It has been found to be useful for relieving stress and anxiety. It contains compounds nuciferine and aporphine, among others, which are believed to have a calming, anxiety-reducing effect. There are also findings that blue lotus tea can uplift mood, induce feelings of euphoria and may have antidepressant properties. The sedative properties of blue lotus may help improve sleep quality and relieve insomnia as well. The compounds found in blue lotus, such as aporphine and nuciferine also have analgesic, or pain-relieving effects on the body, so this herb can be used to alleviate various types of pain, such as headaches and muscle pain. Blue lotus flowers contain antioxidants as well. Antioxidants, help neutralize free radicals harm in the body and protect us against oxidative stress. In many cultures, blue lotus is used as an aphrodisiac for its ability to enhance libido and sexual performance.
Blue lotus flowers also contains several compounds that may interact with the body's neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, motivation, happiness and body control. Imbalances in dopamine levels are believed to be associated with conditions such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia, as well as addictive behaviors. Blue lotus also contains serotonin-related compounds, which influence dopamine signaling in the brain because the serotonin and dopamine systems in the brain are believed to be interconnected, such that changes in serotonin levels can impact dopamine neurotransmission. Increased dopamine activity in certain brain regions is associated with improved mood and feelings of pleasure and people report mood-enhancing effects from consuming blue lotus products. As mentioned, blue lotus has been traditionally used to promote relaxation and reduce stress. One reason for this could be that dopamine plays a role in stress response, and alterations in dopamine levels may contribute to the stress-relieving effects of blue lotus. It should be noted that individual responses to blue lotus can vary, and factors such as amount, frequency, and individual biochemistry may influence its effects on dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the body.
Preparation and Consumption of Blue Lotus:
Blue lotus tea can be made by steeping dried blue lotus flowers or petals in hot water for several minutes
The strength of the tea can be adjusted by varying the amount of blue lotus used and the steeping time.
It's essential to source blue lotus from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and safety, as purity and potency can vary. (At Ora, we sell a pure blue lotus from a source that we know and trust will only provide flowers that are of the highest quality)
As with any herbal remedy, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating blue lotus tea into your wellness routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
