With millions of people still suffering the aftereffects of COVID, Lotus Root may be exactly what is needed to naturally improve lung function, without the need for harsh pharmaceutical drugs. This root can improve breathing, soften mucus, and cause it to be expelled. While this blog focuses on Lotus Root’s support for the lungs, you will learn that it has several other little-known but important health benefits.
What is Lotus Root?
Lotus root is a member of the water lily family. It is the beautiful flowers you see on top of the lily pond and goes by the scientific name of Nelumbo nucifera or Nelumbium nuciferum. Its flower is a symbol of humanity's wish for enlightenment and rebirth. The lotus root grows deep in the mud of the pond and is edible. The root, stalk, and seeds have been used in Asian cooking for over a thousand years, not only for its taste, but primarily because of its medicinal value.
Chinese and Japanese cultures start harvesting lotus root in Autumn when the nutrients are most concentrated in the roots. Consuming it during this time strengthens lung energy during the winter months when respiratory issues are more acute. People who drink lotus root tea daily each year during cold and flu season will notice they rarely have respiratory-related problems.
Health Benefits
Lotus root supports the lungs in several ways. It improves breathing by reducing swelling of the mucous membranes, dissolving mucus, acting as a decongestant, and improving cold and flu symptoms. Its stimulating effect on the immune system keeps respiratory infections from taking hold. Lotus root is especially helpful for people with asthma who find tremendous relief when their breathing improves due to dilation of the bronchi. This root improves the lungs overall, causing them to function more efficiently.
The enzymes in lotus root are anti-inflammatory and improve the health of the large intestine, which in Chinese medicine is the yang organ to the lungs. When the large intestine is improved, it also improves the lungs and vice versa.
Reducing inflammation is very important for people with serious gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn’s, colitis, celiac, and IBS. The high fiber content in lotus root improves bowel transit time, providing relief for people with chronic constipation.
Lotus root is very high in Vitamin C and B Vitamins. It is especially high in Vitamin B6, which is important for stress and anxiety relief. Another symptom of Long Covid is mental confusion. Anyone still dealing with the aftereffects of COVID will benefit not only from lotus roots’ strong respiratory support, but also from its ability to improve brain health.
Other health benefits of lotus root include:
· Clears mucus
· Opens the lungs
· Improves absorption of nutrients
· Strengthens the immune system
· Improves cholesterol and the cardiovascular system
· Improves circulation
· Improves skin
· Reduces stress
How to Prepare Lotus Root
If you buy the whole root, you can peel it, cut it into slices, and let it soak in water for about 30 minutes or until tender. It can then be added to soups, stews, stir-fry, tempura, fried like potato chips, or cooked with sautéed vegetables.
Buying lotus root pickled in the package should be rinsed, drained, and soaked until tender and cooked in any of the ways mentioned above. Purchasing it dried should also be soaked and rinsed before cooking.
Here is a recipe for sauteed lotus root with Bok Choy: https://therisinglotus.com/blog/2020/05/29/lotus-root-for-lungs/
Lotus root powder can be used to make tea. A little goes a long way. Boil a teaspoonful in a cup of water for three minutes, stir to dissolve the powder, and sip while hot. You can add fresh ginger for additional health benefits.
Where to Find Lotus Root
Lotus root is easy to find in Asian supermarkets and comes in several different forms. You can find the whole fresh root, in a package pickled and sliced in water, dried, powdered, or as a tea. Your local health food store may not have it fresh or pickled, but they probably have it dried. If all else fails, you can order it online and have it delivered to your home. Eden Foods is a good brand for the powdered tea and offers it as 100% pure Lotus Root. If you decide to buy it elsewhere, be sure to check the label to make sure there are no other fillers.
LaVera J. Forbes, PhD, MS, CHN, is the founder of Dr. LaVera’s Healthy Aging, LLC. Find free healthy aging resources at drlavera.com.
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