The history of the blue lotus traces back to ancient Egypt, where it was cultivated over 3,000 years ago along the banks of the Nile for its captivating beauty and intoxicating properties. Revered as a sacred plant, the blue lotus held significant religious symbolism and was associated with Egyptian deities such as Hathor, Osiris, Nefertem, and Ra. It served both as a religious sacrament and a recreational substance.
The cultivation of the blue lotus extended beyond Egypt, spreading to other regions of the ancient world, including the Roman Empire, Great Britain, Greece, and India. However, as time passed and the ancient civilizations faded into history, the blue lotus flower fell into obscurity. Recent archaeological findings have reignited interest in this sacred flower of the Nile, shedding new light on its significance and cultural legacy.
In the early 19th century, scholars and researchers were intrigued by the prevalence of blue lotus representations found in nearly all the tombs they excavated. It became evident that the blue lotus held significant cultural and religious significance, prompting a resurgence of interest and in-depth study into this Nile flower.
Ancient Egyptians revered the blue lotus as a sacred plant, which is why it appeared in numerous works of art. It was intricately linked with concepts of rebirth and resurrection, and held a central role in religious rituals, as well as being used as an aphrodisiac.
Some examples of ancestral uses:
The blue lotus held profound symbolism in Egyptian mythology, attributed to its remarkable ability to blossom amidst the murky waters of the Nile. It was deeply intertwined with themes of rebirth and resurrection, serving as a potent symbol of regeneration and transformation, embodying the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
In religious observances and funeral rites, the blue lotus played a central role. Egyptians frequently incorporated blue lotus flowers into offerings dedicated to the gods and utilized them to adorn the tombs of the departed, symbolizing hope for the soul’s journey into the afterlife.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the blue lotus found applications in traditional Egyptian medicine. People believed it possessed therapeutic properties, so it was used as a sedative, analgesic, and aphrodisiac, contributing to various medicinal practices of the time.
In Egyptian mythology, the blue lotus was closely associated with Hathor, the goddess of love and fertility. As such, it was often used as an aphrodisiac, believed to enhance libido and foster fertility, reflecting its role in promoting vitality and sensuality.
Blue lotus alkaloids
Nuciferin: This is an alkaloid found in many plants, including the blue lotus. Nuciferin has been studied for its potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also being studied for its possible relaxing effect on the central nervous system, which could explain its calming and anxiolytic effects.
Aporphine: This is another alkaloid found in the blue lotus, known for its psychoactive properties and effects on the central nervous system. It has been studied for its potential as an antipsychotic and anxiolytic. It is also thought to be a partial agonist of dopamine and serotonin receptors, which may contribute to its relaxing and euphoric effects.
Although research into the terpenes and flavonoids specific to blue lotus is less abundant than for other plants such as cannabis, here are some of the terpenes and flavonoids found in Nymphaea caerulea.
Blue Lotus terpenes
Linalool: This terpene is found in many plants, including blue lotus flowers and cannabis. It is known for its relaxing and soothing properties, and is often thought to have calming effects on the nervous system.
Limonene: Found in various citrus fruits, limonene is a common terpene also found in blue lotus and cannabis. It is often associated with energising and refreshing effects.
Pinene: This terpene is found in a variety of plants, including conifers, lotus flowers and cannabis. It can have anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects, and is often associated with stimulating and invigorating properties.
Blue lotus flavonoids
Quercetin: This flavonoid is present in many fruits and vegetables, as well as in certain medicinal plants, including blue lotus and cannabis. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and is often associated with better cardiovascular health.
Kaempferol: Found in a variety of plants, including spinach, cabbage and certain fruits, as well as in lotus flowers and cannabis. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and is often associated with protective effects on the immune system.
Rutin: This flavonoid is found in many plants, including citrus fruits, red berries, the bark of certain trees and lotus flowers. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and is commonly used to support vascular and ocular health.
It is important to note that the exact composition of terpenes and flavonoids in blue lotus can vary depending on factors such as the variety of plant, growing conditions and extraction methods.
Blue lotus is believed to have a variety of therapeutic properties, including the potential to relieve anxiety, insomnia and stress. Some also claim that it can improve mood and promote mental relaxation and concentration.
To date, there are 176,000 studies on the virtues and contraindications of blue lotus.
According to the International Journal of Applied Biology, it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
According to the International Journal of Applied Biology, it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Blue lotus is known for its psychoactive effects, although these can vary from one person to another depending on factors such as dosage, individual sensitivity and how the plant is consumed. Here are some of the psychoactive effects commonly associated with blue lotus:
Euphoria: Some people report feeling euphoric after consuming blue lotus. This can manifest itself as an improved mood, a feeling of well-being and mental relaxation.
Sedation: Blue lotus is often described as having calming and relaxing effects, which can lead to a feeling of sedation or physical relaxation. Some people find it helps them to relax, unwind and get a better sleep.
Improved concentration: Despite its relaxing effects, some people also report improved concentration and mental clarity when consuming blue lotus. This can be attributed to its soothing effects on the nervous system. Personally, this is just my experience, but I have an autism spectrum disorder and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), and blue lotus helps me in this respect; I feel more focused.
Slight alteration in perception: Although the effects of blue lotus are generally considered to be mild, some people may experience a slight alteration in sensory perception, particularly amplified colours and sounds. I think you need to take a high dose – I’ve never experienced this with just three joints a day!
As with any psychoactive substance, it’s important to use blue lotus with caution, start with a low dose to assess individual reaction, and always consult a doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or if your are taking any other medication.
While blue lotus may have potential benefits for some, it’s important to note that it can also present health risks.
Some possible side effects of excessive blue lotus consumption include headaches, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness.
In addition, blue lotus is not recommended for people with diabetes or heart problems. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women, or for children.
As with any medicinal plant, it is advisable to consult a doctor before starting to use blue lotus, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking other medication. As a precautionary measure, it’s best to follow the example of cannabis and wait 4 hours after taking your medication, especially if you’re taking benzodiazepines or other heavy medication.
I have found a study listing several cases of intoxication by e-liquid containing blue lotus among US servicemen. It’s interesting to note that it’s also with e-liquids that users of HHC and other neo-cannabinoids have ended up in emergency rooms in panic attacks; you mustn’t puff the whole cartridge at once, kids… it’s tempting for sure, it tastes better than a joint, but take it easy, especially the first time, 4 puffs to start with is already good enough 🙏
Commercially available CBD resins and blue lotus extracts are generally manufactured by extracting the active compounds from the respective plants using various extraction methods. Here is a general explanation of the manufacturing process for each substance, most commonly by super-critical CO2 extraction.
The plant parts used for extraction, usually the flowers or leaves, are harvested from blue lotus plants.
The active compounds in blue lotus (terpenes, flavonoids and alkaloids) are extracted using extraction methods similar to those used for cannabis, most often using supercritical CO2 or solvents, the first method being the most likely to yield quality products.
As with cannabis, blue lotus extract can be purified to remove impurities and obtain a high-quality product. It can also be concentrated to increase its potency and effectiveness. Once concentrated, blue lotus extract can be used in a variety of finished products such as tinctures, capsules, topicals, etc.
Infusion
When blue lotus is infused in hot water, its psychoactive effects may take some time to manifest themselves, generally between 20 and 60 minutes after consumption, depending on factors such as metabolism and sensitivity.
The effects of blue lotus infusion can last for several hours, generally from 2 to 6 hours, although this can vary from person to person.
The effects of blue lotus infusion are generally considered to be milder and more gradual than those of inhalation. The sensations of euphoria, relaxation and well-being are often described as subtle but pleasant.
When blue lotus is infused in hot water, the plant’s active compounds are extracted and absorbed by the digestive system, then distributed throughout the body. This can result in effects that are more spread out over time but less intense than when it is inhaled.
There is no need to decarboxylate blue lotus flowers as you would with cannabis flowers, as apomorphine does not need to be heated to be activated.
Vaporising / Smoking blue lotus
When blue lotus is vaporised/smoked, the psychoactive effects can be felt almost immediately, usually within a few minutes.
The effect of vaporised / smoked blue lotus lasts less time than that of infusion, generally between 1 and 3 hours, although this may vary depending on individual factors.
Blue lotus smoke can produce more intense and rapid effects than infusion, which can include a pronounced euphoric sensation, faster relaxation and more marked alterations in sensory perception.
When blue lotus is smoked, the active compounds are inhaled into the lungs, where they are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and delivered to the brain. This allows the psychoactive compounds to act more quickly and in a more concentrated way, which can lead to more immediate but shorter-lasting effects.
In summary, the psychoactive effects of blue lotus can vary according to the method of consumption, with milder, more gradual effects associated with infusion, and faster, more intense effects associated with smoking.
It’s important to choose the method of consumption that suits you best, and to use with caution to avoid unwanted effects. Start with a small dose and, above all, talk to your doctor if you’re already taking medication. If you suffer from diabetes or have a heart condition, do not consume blue lotus. Many people get the green light from their cardiologist for CBD, but blue lotus is really no good at all if you have one of these two problems.
Blue lotus rhizomes and seeds can be interesting ingredients for a variety of recipes, and they can also offer nutritional benefits. Here’s some information on their nutritional values and a few recipe ideas:
Blue lotus rhizomes
Blue lotus rhizomes are rich in dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals, making them an interesting food supplement. Here are the typical nutritional values of blue lotus rhizomes:
Blue lotus rhizomes are a good source of dietary fibre, which can promote digestive health and help regulate bowel movements.
They contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, copper and manganese.
Although blue lotus rhizomes are not particularly rich in protein, they do contain a moderate amount, which can also contribute to your nutritional needs.
Recipe ideas
Blue lotus soup
Prepare a delicious soup by cutting blue lotus rhizomes into thin slices and adding them to a vegetable stock with vegetables of your choice. Season with herbs and spices for extra flavour.
Blue lotus salad
Grate blue lotus rhizomes and mix with crunchy vegetables such as carrots, cucumber and cabbage. Dress with a light vinaigrette of lemon juice, olive oil and fresh herbs.
Fried blue lotus
Cut blue lotus rhizomes into thin slices and fry in a pan with vegetables, proteins such as chicken or tofu, and spices. Serve with rice or noodles for a hearty, healthy meal.
Blue lotus seeds
Blue lotus seeds are nutritious and can be used in a variety of dishes. They are rich in protein, fibre and minerals, and have a crunchy, slightly sweet texture.
Recipe ideas
Crunchy snack
Toast blue lotus seeds in a pan with a little oil and spices for a healthy, crunchy snack. Season with salt, pepper, paprika or other spices of your choice.
In cereals and yoghurts
Sprinkle blue lotus seeds over your cereal, yoghurt or salad to add a touch of crunch and extra nutrients.
In ready meals
Add blue lotus seeds to soups, stir-fries and rice-based dishes to add texture and flavour. They can also be used in bread or biscuit recipes to add a touch of crunch.
Here’s a tutorial for growing blue lotus flowers at home, whether indoors or outdoors, in a pond or aquarium:
- 1. Choosing the right location :
To grow blue lotus flowers outdoors, choose a sunny spot where they will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight a day.
If you are growing indoors, place the plants near a well-lit window where they can benefit from indirect sunlight.
- 2. Prepare the soil or substrate :
Blue lotus flowers grow best in soil or substrate that is rich in organic matter and well drained.
If you’re growing in a pond or aquarium, use a substrate specially designed for aquatic plants, such as river sand or expanded clay. - 3. Plant the rhizomes :
Blue lotus flowers develop from rhizomes, which are underground stems.
Plant the rhizomes in the soil or substrate so that the crown (the part where the leaves emerge) is flush with the ground or lightly covered with soil.
- 4. Water regularly:
Keep the soil or substrate moist but not soggy. Blue lotus flowers prefer a soil that is constantly moist but well drained.
If you are growing in a pond or aquarium, make sure the water is changed regularly to avoid any build-up of organic debris.
- 5. Fertilising plants:
Use a balanced aquatic plant fertiliser or slow-release fertiliser to feed your blue lotus flowers.
Apply the fertiliser according to the manufacturer’s instructions, taking care not to overfeed the plants. - 6. Control pests and diseases:
Monitor blue lotus plants for any signs of pest attack such as aphids or slugs, as well as any signs of disease such as root rot.
If necessary, treat pests or diseases with appropriate methods, such as the use of insecticides or fungicides, or by manually removing pests.
- 7. Prune leaves and flowers:
Prune wilted leaves and flowers regularly to encourage healthy growth and prolong flowering.
Use clean, sharp scissors to avoid injuring the plants.
- 8. During the winter:
If you live in an area where winter temperatures drop below freezing, you’ll need to winterise your blue lotus flowers.
If your plants are in the ground, prune the leaves and remove the rhizomes from the soil. Store them in a cool, dry place until spring.
If your plants are in a pond or an aquarium, move them to a deep, sheltered spot where the water won’t freeze.
- 1. Choosing the right location :
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully grow blue lotus flowers at home, whether indoors or outdoors, in a pond or aquarium. Make sure you provide the plants with the appropriate care throughout their growth to ensure their health and abundant flowering.
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