Lotus Root, sliced (Nelumbo nucifera)
Nelumbo nucifera
Unit size: 1 ounce
Origin: China
Form: Whole flower heads and pieces
Other names: Sacred Lotus, lutis, padma
Esoteric Uses: Love, fertility, purity, protection
Esoteric Associations: Moon, Water
Incense Aroma: Starts off quite nutty when burned, then grows harsher and more murky
From ancient times the lotus has been a divine symbol in Asian traditions representing the virtues of sexual purity and non-attachment. Hindus revere it with the divinities Vishnu and Lakshmi often portrayed on a pink lotus in iconography. In the representation of Vishnu as Padmanabha (Lotus navel), a lotus issues from his navel with Brahma on it. Goddess Sarasvati is portrayed on a white-colored lotus. Often used as an example of divine beauty, Vishnu is often described as the 'Lotus-Eyed One'. Its unfolding petals suggest the expansion of the soul. The growth of its pure beauty from the mud of its origin holds a benign spiritual promise. In Hindu iconography, other deities, like Ganga and Ganesha are often depicted with lotus flowers as their seats.
The flowers, seeds, young leaves, and "roots" (rhizomes) are all edible. In Asia, the petals are sometimes used for garnish, while the large leaves are used as a wrap for food, not frequently eaten.
This is herb grade Lotus Root.
