The water lily (scientific name: Nymphaea cyanea ), also known as the Indian water lily, is an aquatic plant of the Nymphaeaceae family. It grows up to about 30 cm above the water surface and grows naturally in shallow waters about 20 to 40 cm deep. It produces fragrant blue flowers that bloom in the morning in summer, is relatively cold-tolerant, and goes into a dormant state (hibernation) in winter. Historically, it is sometimes mentioned with a cultural background as the "blue water lily (blue lotus)" used in religious ceremonies in ancient Egypt.
This plant is said to have similar effects to Indian lotus ( Nelumbo nucifera ), and both are reported to contain alkaloids (e.g., nuciferine, aporphine) . Traditionally, it has been used for mood stabilization and relaxation, and is sometimes mentioned in aromatherapy contexts as a "mental stabilizing" agent. While literature suggests that it may have sedative and anticonvulsant effects, it is also noted to have the potential for psychoactivity (alertness and mood changes). Therefore, it is important to consider dosage, usage, and safety when using it.
In terms of ingredients, it is said to contain plant components such as polyphenols in addition to alkaloids, and based on these components, traditional use and basic research have suggested that it may have effects such as sedation and relaxation support , anticonvulsant effects , antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it may also be possible for it to be used as a material that contributes to maintaining the condition of the skin and scalp, and through improving the scalp environment, it may be possible for it to be used as a material that supports hair elasticity, strength and a healthy growth environment.
Characteristics of water lilies (Nymphaea cyanea)
- Scientific name: Nymphaea cyanea
- Classification: Nymphaeaceae, Nymphaeaceae
- Also known as Indian water lily, sometimes called blue lotus (depending on context)
- Appearance: Floating leaves spread out over the water, and fragrant blue flowers bloom in the morning in summer.
- Habitat: Shallow water (20-40cm deep)
- Cold resistance: Relatively cold-resistant, goes into dormancy in winter
- Parts used: Mainly flowers (whole plant depending on use)
Expected effects
- Sedative and relaxation support effects: It has been suggested that it has a sedative effect, and may support mood stabilization and relaxation.
- Psychoactive (mood and alertness-related) effects: Some literature suggests effects related to mood changes and alertness, so care must be taken when using this drug.
- Anticonvulsant-related effects: It has been suggested that it may be involved in regulating convulsive responses.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: It has been suggested that it may contribute to the relief of inflammatory discomfort by modulating the inflammatory response.
- Antioxidant effect: It has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing oxidative stress associated with reactive oxygen species and protecting cells.
- Maintains skin and scalp condition: Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing scalp dryness and irritation, and maintaining the skin's barrier function.
- Hair environment support (hair growth support): It has been suggested that by improving the scalp environment, it may contribute to maintaining hair elasticity and strength and supporting a healthy growth environment.
*For reference, the related species "white lotus (white-flowered water lily/lotus species)" is said in literature and legend to be used as a cardiotonic, blood purifier, and for circulatory system disorders accompanied by edema, but since the components differ depending on the species and part, it is recommended that they be treated separately and not considered the same.
