Star water lily (Nymphaea stellata)
Other names: Indian blue water lily
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
The star water lily (Nymphaea stellata), also known as Indian blue water lily, is one of the most impressive representatives of the water lily family. This aquatic plant is native to South and East Asia, specifically Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Malaysia. However, today it is widespread almost all over the world. The plant is characterised by its beautiful blue-purple flowers, which open during the day and close at night. Star water lily prefers stagnant or slow flowing waters and is able to grow even in relatively shallow waters.
Due to its beauty, the star water lily is often used in ornamental pools, ponds or aquariums. But this is not its only use. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, this plant is used for its medicinal properties. Water lily root is used to treat gastritis, stomach ulcers or as a diuretic. Water lily leaves are used to treat the skin and are also made into an ointment for burns. In addition, it is very popular in the cosmetic industry, where it is used in the production of creams, soaps or shampoos. The extract of the star water lily has moisturizing and soothing effects that nourish the skin and keep it youthful. Even the seeds of the water lily have been used in the past as a raw material for the production of edible oil.