Discover the benefits of lotus root for your immunity and digestion
Lotus Root - An Ancient Treasure with a Modern Twist
In the depths of serene Asian lakes grows a plant that has symbolized purity, spiritual strength, and harmony for centuries. The lotus – the sacred flower of Buddhism and Hinduism – captivates not only with its beauty. Beneath the water's surface lies its lesser-known yet fascinating part: the root. Lotus root, often overlooked in Central European cuisine, is cherished in Asia not only as food but also as a natural remedy. In recent years, it has gained attention here as well, thanks to its unique properties.
What makes lotus root such an exceptional ingredient? How to prepare it, where to find it fresh, and what experiences do people have with it?
Lotus – Not Just a Flower, but a Health-Filled Root
The Indian lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an aquatic plant that grows from mud but blooms far above the water's surface. This ability to "overcome the dirt of the world" gives the lotus the symbolism of spiritual purity. Although the flower is the most visible element, the true treasure lies underwater – the lotus root, botanically known as a rhizome.
At first glance, it resembles sweet potatoes or ginger. However, inside it has a distinctive structure with small cavities. This lattice-like texture not only gives the root crispness and juiciness but also an aesthetic appeal, making it popular in culinary uses. Its crunchiness and mildly sweet taste make it a favorite in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisine.
But lotus root is not just a delicacy. It contains B vitamins, vitamin C, manganese, potassium, and fiber, making it a nutritionally valuable ingredient. In traditional Chinese medicine, it has been used for millennia – especially for colds, coughs, congestion, and weak immunity.
What Health Benefits Does Lotus Root Offer?
According to millennia-old practices of Eastern medicine, lotus root helps harmonize the body and mind. While Western science is still catching up with Eastern knowledge, some effects are already supported by modern research.
1. Support for Respiratory System and Immunity
Traditionally, lotus root is brewed into tea or soups during colds and flu. It helps dissolve phlegm, clears airways, and soothes cough. Its effect is particularly strong when fresh lotus root is consumed shortly after harvest – that's when it contains the most active compounds.
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2. Soothing Digestion and Supporting Metabolism
With its high fiber content, it helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation. The presence of vitamin B6 also supports metabolism and the nervous system function.
3. Reducing Stress and Calming the Mind
Lotus root is associated with balance and inner harmony. In some cultures, it is used to support anxiety or stress relief – for instance, in the form of fermented tea or broth.
4. Purifying and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Lotus contains antioxidants that help protect cells from free radicals. Traditionally, it is also used for "blood cleansing" and detoxification, especially during seasonal transitions.
A study published in the Journal of Food Science (2011) notes that lotus extracts may have anti-inflammatory properties that calm inflammatory responses in the body – mainly due to the content of phenolic compounds.
Experiences with Lotus Root: What Do People Say?
Users' experiences vary, but they share a common denominator – most perceive lotus root as a functional food that not only tastes good but also helps.
Kateřina, who lives in Brno and is interested in macrobiotics, described her first encounter with lotus root as follows: "At first, I was surprised by its structure; it looks strange, almost like a cross between a potato and a jellyfish. But it tastes mild and pleasantly crunchy. I use it in soups, especially when autumn colds start."
Many also praise its effects on congestion. "My son always had a stuffy nose and cough. I tried making him a broth from lotus root, as suggested by a friend from a traditional Chinese medicine course. Within two days, he really felt better," shares her experience on a forum a user with the nickname Sabi7.
On social media, people often ask where to buy fresh lotus root. The most common answers are specialized Asian stores or e-shops focused on healthy nutrition. In dried or frozen form, it is more accessible, but fresh root has the most intense flavor and effect.
How to Prepare Lotus Root?
One of the great advantages of lotus root is its versatility in the kitchen. It can be boiled, stewed, fried, or pickled. In Asia, it is a common part of stir-fry dishes, salads, and sweets. In Japan, for example, they prepare tempura from lotus slices, while in Korea, it is often fermented with root vegetables.
When preparing, it's important to clean and peel the root well. It can then be sliced into rings that resemble a floral pattern – after a short blanching, it remains crunchy yet tender.
Lotus is mainly used in treatment in three forms – as a tea from boiled root, which you can enhance with a bit of ginger or lemon, as a nutritious broth cooked perhaps with carrots and kombu seaweed, or dried root, which just needs to be soaked beforehand and can be added anywhere from tea to soup.
In the cold season, a nutritious soup from lotus root, red lentils, and miso paste is a great tip. It combines warmth, calmness, and cleansing – an ideal combination against autumn fatigue and viruses.
Where to Find Fresh Lotus Root?
The availability of fresh lotus root is still limited, but not impossible. It is most commonly found in well-stocked Asian stores or bio e-shops that import fresh produce. When choosing, it's good to pay attention to freshness – the root should be firm, without brown spots, and with a clean scent. If you manage to get truly fresh, it is recommended to consume it within a few days – storing it in a towel in the refrigerator helps maintain its freshness.
There are also available dried variants, which have a longer shelf life and can be easily used in tea or broth. These are especially suitable when fresh root is not at hand.
It's also important to choose a quality source – ideally, bio-certified, as the root grows in mud and can absorb toxins from the environment. For this reason, it's advisable to select products from trusted organic farms or verified sellers.
Lotus Root and Its Place in Modern Lifestyle
More and more people are returning to natural sources of health today. In a time when our immunity is challenged, and stress has become a daily companion, lotus root offers a unique blend of taste, nutrition, and traditional wisdom. Whether as part of a meal, homemade tea, or a strong broth, it can be an unobtrusive yet powerful ally in the pursuit of a healthier and more balanced life.
"Nature has answers, we just need to know how to listen," says an old Chinese proverb – and lotus root is a beautiful example of this. Seemingly inconspicuous, yet with profound effects on the body and mind. Perhaps now is the right time to discover it.
