Origin: The lotus flower is one of the most ancient flowers and holds a deep significance in human life. This flower symbolizes purity, the longevity of life, health and brings good luck. The lotus flower grows in shallow muddy water and rises above the water surface and blooms into beautiful flower this flower is also famous for bringing grace, wealth and fertility to the life.
The Lotus plant is an aquatic perennial plant and is cultivated in water gardens in different countries. The roots are firm in the mud and the flower grows out of the water and sometimes leaves grow out as well. It grows on a thick stem. In India, lotus has a deep significance and has a history in Puranas and Vedic mythology. The Pink Lotus is the National Flower of India. Lotus is a very scared flower for Buddhists and is one of the auspicious signs in Buddhism. It promotes harmony and is mentioned in Buddhist mantra ‘Om mane padme’.
In Egypt, the lotus is associated with the sun, because it blooms in the day time and shuts by evening. In Asia, lotus flower, seeds and stem are used in making delectable dishes, while lotus leaves are used for garnishing and wrapping the food. Lotus is also known for its herbal medicinal values. The American Lotus is Nelumbium luteum, which is pale and has small flowers. The Indian or Chinese Lotus is called nelumbium nelumbo, which has pink flowers. This type of lotus also has different varieties in white, rose and the double color is available. In India, Lotus is popularly known as a kamal. Lotus flowers are found in different colors white and pink.
Scientifically: Scientifically, the lotus is called Nelumbo nucifera and belongs to Kingdom of Plantae, division of Magnoliophyta and class of Magnoliopsida. Lotus flowers do not bloom in winters and enjoy the warm sunshine. Lotus belongs to Asia and blooms in different cold weather from India to China.
Lotus has great medicinal properties and is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is full of vitamin C, vitamin B complex, potassium, and antioxidants. It helps in regulating the blood pressure level of the body. Lotus seeds also help in treating diarrhea. Brewing lotus petals as a tea helps in treating inflammation and cold.
This provides all the necessary nutrients to the body if consumed. Similarly, it works wonder for the skin. Lotus-face packs help in controlling the sebum production, it also balances out the oil and improves skin texture.
Usage: Lotus is used as a tea, as an ingredient in cosmetics, medicines and as a DIY remedy for many women. Lotus as a skincare product is very moisturizing and helps in fading dark spots. It also heals the dry flaky skin. Lotus prevents skin breakouts. Lotus is great for hair as well. Lotus works great as a conditioner, adds shine and volume to the hair. Lotus essential oil help in taking care of premature greying of hair.
DIY lotus masks:
- Take 10-12 petals of Lotus flower, 2-3 teaspoons of milk, grind this mixture together. Apply this paste all over the face and leave it for 10 minutes. Rinse and pat dry later. This mask helps in tightening of the skin pores.
- Take some lotus petals in a cup of water and let it brew for 5 minutes. Take a face towel and soak the tea in the towel when warm. Apply the towel on the face and let it sit for 10 minutes. You can or may not wash your face after this.
- Take 7-8 lotus petals, grind them together with a teaspoon of yogurt. Put these masks on the face and let it dry for 10 minutes. Rinse later. This helps in moisturizing the skin.
- Grind the petals of a lotus flower with one tablespoon of water, add a teaspoon of milk and a tablespoon of masoor dal powder to this. Mix well, apply the face pack on your face and neck. Leave it for 15 minutes and then wash off with normal water. This exfoliates and nourishes the skin as well.
- Lotus petal tea can also be used as a hair rinse after the shampoo to add luster to the hair.