A lotus seed or lotus nut is the seed of a plant in the genus Nelumbo, particularly the species Nelumbo nucifera. The seeds are used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine.
Mostly sold in dried, shelled form, the seeds contain rich contents of protein, B vitamins, and dietary minerals.
The seeds can be eaten just like popcorn. But unlike popcorn, lotus seeds are healthy and offer many benefits. It is commonly known as makhana in India and is small, round and white or off-white in appearance.
The lotus seeds are highly useful in terms of nutritional benefits and are low in saturated fats, sodium and cholesterol; high in magnesium potassium, thiamine and phosphorus.
Besides being edible, the lotus plant has many health and beauty benefits as well. You can use makhana seeds in desserts, rice porridge, soups and stir fry dishes.
Several researchers have found many uses of the lotus plant. The seeds are powerful antioxidants and help fight inflammation and aging.
Apart from that research has found the seeds to be useful in lowering hypertension. Listed below are some of the popular health benefits of using lotus seeds regularly:
1. Treats Insomnia
Sleeping disorders like sleep apnoea and insomnia are common heath issues suffered by the elderly people as well as the young generation. Sleeping disorders are mainly caused due to stress and may trigger underlying complicated health-related problems. The seeds of lotus are used as effective home remedies to cure such sleeping disorders. The calming effects and the natural sedative properties of the seeds are effective in healing the restlessness and thus encourage sound sleep.
2. Good for Diabetic patients
Since Lotus seeds are low in calories but high in fiber, it help in lowering down the blood sugar levels, so a diabetic patient must consume lotus seeds regularly to maintain the health. It is a health and tasty snack for diabetics.
3. Anti-Aging
Lotus seeds consist of anti-aging enzymes that slows down the aging process and also repairs damaged proteins. So, consuming these seeds can actually reverse your aging benefits without using any anti-aging creams. Due to its anti-aging enzymes, scientist is finding different methods to use these seeds in cosmetics and skincare products but it is better to eat them instead of using the products.
4. Heal diarrhea
According to Chinese medicine, the sweet taste of lotus seeds benefit to nourish the spleen and diarrhea. Lotus seed is used in Chinese medicine to reduce diarrhea problem. They also used to increase the spleen health. Research said that lotus seeds help to strengthen the digestive and reduce diarrhea.
5. Reducing blood pressure
The embryo which can found inside of the lotus seed, have benefits to the heart because of its bitter and cooling properties. The bitter component that is isoquinoline alkaloids claimed has calming effects and antispasmodic, which help dilate blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.
6. Treat urinary problem
Lotus seed is considered one of the best choices to cure urinary problems. Sometime the seed is combined with other ingredient to cure urinary problems like prostatitis and reproductive condition.
7. Gum issue
People who suffer from related gum issue are recommended to take lotus seeds because of the healing properties. Regular consumption of lotus seeds gradually heals your gum issues.
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