©Deborah Barr

Foods in the lotus family are very beneficial for lung health and are not familiar to most people.

Lotus root grows submerged in the mud of tropical ponds.  It sends up leaves and exquisite blossoms that float on top of the water.  The blossom is a Buddhist symbol of enlightenment.  The lotus blossoms, as well as its leaves, roots, stems, and seeds are delicious and valuable medicinal foods.  The roots and seeds are more readily available.  Fresh lotus root is more easily found in the fall and winter in the produce section.  It is beneficial for lung related ailments, diarrhea, and nosebleeds. It increases energy, neutralizes toxins, enriches the blood, and nurtures the heart.  Cook with grains, vegetable dishes, soups, or with beans.  See recipe below.

If you are unable to find fresh lotus root, you can substitute dried lotus root slices.  Click here to order.

Lotus seeds can be purchased dried and have a nutty flavor.  They improve lung health, increase kidney energy and overall vitality.  They aid digestion, nourish the heart, counter insomnia and sooth the nervous system.  They’re also used for vaginal discharge, cloudy urine, or seminal emission.  They contain 20% protein and are highly nourishing.  See recipe below.  Click here to order.

Lotus tea is an excellent medicinal beverage made from powdered, dried lotus root.  It is useful for coughing and congestion, and builds overall health and specifically strengthens the heart, lungs, kidneys, and digestive system.  See recipe below.  Click here for ordering Dried Lotus Root Tea.

To maintain good health during the autumn and winter, use the lotus products on a regular basis.  Click here for ordering.

LOTUS ROOT VEGETABLE STEW 

Wash lotus seeds in cold water, drain and cover with fresh water and soak 3 hours or more.   Cover dried lotus root slices with cold water and reconstitute for an hour or more.  Place kombu, lotus seeds, lotus root, and 4 cps. of water in a saucepan.  Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cook 30 minutes. Add vegetables and simmer 20 minutes more.  Add soy sauce and grated ginger for last ten minutes of cooking.  Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and/or scallions.

NOTE:  Lotus seeds can be combined with beans, such as aduki beans, black soybeans, and others in recipes.  Use ½ cup lotus seeds to 1 ½ cups beans.  I often cook 1/2 cup lotus seeds and 1/8 cp. dried lotus root with 1 1/2 cups brown rice or other whole grain.

LOTUS ROOT TEA

Place 1.5-2 tsp. dried lotus root tea and a small pinch of sea salt in a cup of cold water in a saucepan.  Bring to a boil, turn down heat and stir constantly to dissolve the tea, simmering 3-5 minutes.  You can add a little fresh grated ginger or a small pinch of ginger powder.  You can drink a cup a day in Fall and Winter to help strengthen lungs.  If you have coughing and/or chest congestion, drink 3 cups a day.  If lungs are dry and cough is unproductive or if there is a fever, add some honey.  This tea is fine for children too. 

Call 412.361.8600 to schedule a free 30-minute consultation/evaluation.   Wouldn't you like to create a plan for reversing these and other health conditions in safe, effective ways?  Sessions can be done by phone or in my Pittsburgh office.

©Deborah Barr, 2000-07.  All rights reserved.