Rising from a muddy pond, a lotus flower blossoms. Such epitome of purity in a turbid environment has sparked off much inspiration in ancient oriental literature and Buddhist teachings, shaping a repertoire of odes to the graceful demeanour and refreshing fragrance of the lotus. History The lotus has played a vital role in the creation of the world, according to Egyptian mythology. Before the universe came into being, there was an infinite ocean of inert water which constituted the primeval being named Num. Out of Num emerged a lotus flower and when it blossomed, the self-created sun god, Atum, stepped out as a child. In fact, the lotus flower is featured extensively in the artwork of ancient Egypt. Ecologically, the first stirrings of life in the world arose in water. Premised on the botanical understanding that the lotus is one of the world's first flowering plants, it is conceivable that lotus is a living fossil. In Indian culture, the lotus is symbol of rebirth and a manifestation of truth, ideals, beauty, peace and enlightenment. Since ancient times, lotus has always been a gastronomical delight in Chinese cuisine, with recipes ranging from rice wrapped in lotus leaf to lotus roots soup. Ecology The lotus is an Asian water lily that possesses an amazing ability to flourish in a variety of environments ranging from clear ponds to muddy marshes. It is also renowned for its hearty seed pods, which often plant themselves away from its source, spreading the beauty of the lotus blossoms far and wide. Most lotus seeds remain quiescent during the cold or dry season and germinate only under favourable growth conditions. The exquisite lotus flower is usually white or pink in colour with 15 or more oval petals that spread out in elegance and a peculiar, flat seedcase at its centre. Health Notes All parts of the lotus provide a range of health benefits, making the lotus a plant with comprehensive healing properties. A good and mild tonic in its own right, the lotus seed is used primarily as an astringent to aid tonic formulations in the kidney and spleen. It prevents the loss of essences from our body and has a stabilising effect on the mind. Tests have shown that it can also slow down the aging process. Lotus leaves are able to strengthen heart and liver functions. They also help to lower body temperature and restore proper functions of the body, by improving the ability of our tissues to metabolise nutrients and eliminate wastes. Lotus roots are beneficial for the lung and stomach and help to curb bleeding. Lotus also acts as a booster for our flora and fauna. Lotus essence is able to intensify the effects of other flower essences. As lotus is one of the flowers with the highest vibrations, it encourages a gentle unfolding of the highest potential within animals and provides solace to abused or neglected animals, enabling them to rise above their suppression. With its delicate fragrance, quiet elegance and unsullied characteristics, Bel'Air's Fleur De Lotus essential oil can likewise engender an oasis of tranquillity for meditation, to elevate our spiritual health to a higher level. |
