"The embodiment of the “perfection of wisdom'", the lotus has long been regarded as sacred by millions of people from various regions and religions, where it is considered to be a symbol of the Universe itself. Originally found growing along the Nile River in Egypt thousands of years ago, the stunning Blue Lotus flower enticed travelers to bring the brilliantly beautiful plant back to their own homelands. The Blue Lotus spread throughout the world in ancient times and is still commonly seen today in India, Southeast Asia, and in the Pacifics. Rooted in the depths of thick, dark mud, the lotus rises each day to greet the sun, to emerge illustrious in the sunlight, symbolizing purity and resurrection, rebirth and renewal. A living metaphor of the enlightened being who rises again and again, untarnished from the darkness and confusion of the world.
The Blue Lotus is one of the world’s most celebrated flowers, but there is much complexity and confusion around it. The Sacred Blue Lily of the Nile is often referred to as the Blue Lotus though technically they are two different flowers; they are both from the Nymphaeaceae family, and are aquatic, rhizomatous herbs that contain Nuciferine (a known dopamine receptor blockade, psychotropic, and possible anti-cancer compound) in varying amounts. If it has “Nelumbo” as part of its name it is a Lotus, and any plant that as “Nucifera” as part of its name is a Lily.
In Africa and India, Blue Lotus has been used for thousands of years for its pleasantly euphoric effects. In the various traditions of India, the Blue Lotus has had many treasured and sacred meanings. "The Hindus hold the lotus seed to be especially sacred because the seed contains perfectly formed leaves, providing a complete template for the adult plant. This is believed to be Divine form passing from the abstract into tangible reality." The eight-petaled lotus used in Buddhist mandalas speaks to cosmic harmony. The thousand-petaled lotus represents spiritual illumination, and is the symbol of the victory of the spirit over the senses.
Such an exquisite and fascinating flower, isn’t it?
Regardless of the geographic region, there is one thing for certain: This is one powerful family of flower, and we are beyond excited to dive even deeper into its incredibly rich history and impressive range of potential health benefits.
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