Water lily (Nymphaea lotus)

Other names: Egyptian water lily, Egyptian lotus, tiger lotus

The sacred water lily (Nymphaea lotus), also known as the Egyptian water lily, Egyptian lotus or tiger lotus, is a popular and highly decorative plant. Its occurrence is mainly in warm and tropical regions of Africa or Asia. Typical representatives are, for example, in Egypt or India, where it has gained great popularity and is a symbol of sanctity and purity. It is characterised by its well-shaped crown, which consists of rounded, beautifully shaped leaves that vary in colour from green to red to copper. The beautiful flowers of the Sacred Water Lily add to its charming appearance.

Thanks to its beauty, the water lily is widely used not only as an ornamental plant for garden ponds or aquariums, but also in the cosmetics industry. For example, the oil from the holy water lily is used in skin and hair care products. The plant also produces an essence that is used in aromatherapy for its calming and relaxing effects. In some cultures, its flowers and fruit are used in gastronomy, either as part of nutritional supplements or as an ingredient in various dishes. It also has a place in traditional medicine, for example in India it is used to treat the skin or to relieve stress and anxiety.