The Chinese water lily (Nelumbo nucifera) is also often called lotus (though, while both plants are in the same family Nymphaeaceae, they are different species of plants.) It has been used for thousands of years in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) to help stop bleeding and nourish all five main Systems in TCM, the Heart, Kidney, Lung, Liver, and Spleen.

A culinary herb and medicinal herb, the Chinese water lily is also famous as a symbol of enlightenment and rebirth in many traditions including the Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu, and Ancient Egyptian cultures.

The popped seeds are popular as a healthy snack that is high in minerals and tastes like popcorn.

The young stalks are often cooked in culinary dishes and the leaves are used to treat infertility and respiratory infections.

Find out more about this sacred, culinary, and medicinal herb.