Unique Benefits of Lotus Flower
Lotus flower is an aquatic plant that can be a variety of colors. The leaves, petals, and see can be prepared and consumed in several different ways. Lotus has culinary uses in many Asian countries, and parts of the plant and its extracts have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Some compounds in the lotus may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The flower grows in water and is often confused with water lilies, featuring a bowl shape with petals and green leaves. Today, lotus is studied for its possible health benefits.
Blood Sugar Control
There are some studies, suggest that compounds in lotus could help lower blood sugar levels. One study found that lotus leaves extract reduced the blood sugar levels in rabbits with diabetes significantly more than a standard diabetes medication. Another study showed that mice who received lotus seed extract experienced reduced their blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant
The lotus contains many flavonoid and alkaloid compounds that may act like antioxidants. Antioxidant helps to neutralize reactive molecules known as free radicals. Some of the antioxidant compounds in lotus include kaempferol, catechin, chlorogenic acid and quercetin. The antioxidant activity of lotus appears to be most concentrated in its seeds and leaves.
Antibacterial Agent
Lotus flower has been studied for its antibacterial effects, including against bacteria in human mouth. It exhibits antibacterial properties is not clear, but the many beneficial compounds it contains likely play a role. Studies suggest that the leaves of lotus extract can fight bacterial species that cause cavities and gum infections.
Reduce Inflammation
The lotus leaf compounds may also have anti-inflammatory properties. One test-tube study found that lotus leaves extract could inhibit pro-inflammatory compounds, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), nitric oxide (NO), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Other test-tube study with mouse cells found that both lotus seeds and leaves extract decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory genes.
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