Blue Lotus, also called Nymphaea Caerulea, is a freshwater plant originating from ancient Egypt and Africa. It was used in religious ceremonies and as a typical party substance and its calming properties. Nowadays, these prehistoric herbs are widely recognized for their medicinal uses worldwide. This article will discuss the safety status of blue lotus according to current and past research.
How can blue lotus affect one’s health?
The blue lotus flower contains two essential chemical agents; Apomorphine and Nuciferine. Apomorphine activates dopamine receptors in the brain by binding to D1 and D2 receptors. It also activates serotonin receptors, and together dopamine and serotonin work to create a happy and euphoric state in consumers. Nuciferine is thought to instill feelings of calmness but has an unknown mechanism of action. However, other active components such as phenols, flavonoids, and tannins are also present.
The blue lotus has a wide array of benefits. Its various effects depend on the method used to administer the substance, its dosage, and its combination with other substances. A study was published in The Journal of The Royal Society of Medicine in which it was stated that the blue lotus is beneficial in resolving sexual dysfunction in men. The chemical agent Apomorphine, native to two Nymphaea species: Nymphaea Caerulea (the blue lotus) and Nymphaea Ampla, is the main constituent that acts on the brain to help in sexual activity.
Through its production of Apomorphine, the blue lotus also helps increase motivation and responsiveness to various stimuli. In another study conducted in The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, stimulatory effects on the muscle tone of the digestive, respiratory and cardiovascular systems were discussed along with its use in movement disorders.
The blue lotus is used frequently to improve mood. In addition, it may also be used during meditation and to enhance creativity and peace.
On its own, the blue lotus does not lead to any dependence or tolerance. If less than five grams are taken, side effects can be avoided altogether. Its side effects are not harmful to most consumers when taken in moderation, and hangovers are not seen. According to the study published in military medicine, when taken in high doses, the consumer may not be aware of their surroundings, indulge in unusual behavior, and see or feel things that are not present.
Case Reports Related To Blue Lotus Consumption
In a similar study as mentioned above, the following case reports regarding the consumption of blue lotus and its associated safety factors have been published. A 22-year-old male patient complaining of unusual behavior presented to the emergency department. He reported recent consumption of alcohol and previous use of marijuana. However, ethanol levels were harmful on analysis. On further probing, the patient confessed to purchasing and ingesting blue lotus brewed in wine earlier. But the mild symptoms resolved soon. After being kept under observation for two hours and 45 minutes, he was discharged without further intervention.
In another case, a 19-year-old male with chest pain and agitated mental status for three hours presented to the emergency department. He had vaped blue lotus after acquiring it from a friend. The patient was given fluids intravenously, which improved his increased heart rate without further need for medications. He was discharged after a three-hour and 45 min observation period since his chest pain resolved spontaneously. However, he returned the next day with similar complaints, and further testing did not reveal any hidden cause.
In a similar case, a 29-year-old male patient with altered behavior, suspected hallucinations, and drowsiness presented to the emergency department for treatment. On history taking, it was discovered that the patient had recently vaped blue lotus. However, the symptoms resolved over a four-hour observation period, and the patient was able to return home without any further complications.
Do Risks Outweigh The Benefits of Blue Lotus?
According to multiple pieces of research, the blue lotus was seen as a substance of importance in ancient Egyptian history, both for spiritual experiences and as a recreational substance. Due to its numerous health benefits, it has gained notable mention in different journals and discussions within the scientific community today.
The blue lotus is quickly gaining popularity with its antioxidant, antibacterial, and pain killer effects. The Journal of Academia and Industrial Research has included it in different plants with promising potential for use in future medicines.
The research was carried out regarding the vital role of Nuciferine in inflammatory disorders and mental health conditions. The plant can treat these diseases since this chemical agent is present in the blue lotus in abundant amounts.
Apart from the health benefits mentioned earlier in the article, the blue lotus also has multiple uses in beautification and maintenance of a youthful appearance and hence is frequently used in aromatherapy and massage therapy. Furthermore, it provides natural hydration and can be used in skincare and for hair conditioning treatments. The extracts may also repair and reverse the damage caused to the ends of the hair. In addition, the plant has regulatory effects on sebaceous glands in the skin, thus reducing the occurrence of pimples and acne.
However, even after discovering its multiple uses, the lack of clinical testing has made it difficult to decide whether the benefits are more than the risks involved. Furthermore, due to the unavailability of detailed research on the short and long-term side effects, appropriate conclusions cannot be reached. This is why future researchers must focus on the risks involved and the complications from using the blue lotus.
What Precautions Should One Take Before Consuming Blue Lotus?
Blue lotus can be consumed in several ways, and the dosage may vary depending on the method of consumption. Throughout ancient history, the oral practice of ingestion was followed predominantly. The dosage for eating is 3 ml, and the herbal remedy should only be ingested after a 20 minutes interval in the mouth since the oral mucosa carries out adequate absorption.
Another way is by consuming blue lotus tea made by brewing the dried flowers or powder of the blue lotus in boiling water. The dosage for the tea is 3-5 grams, and this is the method used throughout the world today.
Smoking a mix of the petals and bulbs is another way as both these components have better value together than alone. However, if extracts are being used, half of the regular dose amount should be taken due to their higher alkaloid concentration. So remember to keep that in mind.
It is essential to avoid repeated usage of the herb to maintain its potency. In addition, heavy machinery users and drivers should avoid consumption due to the 8% alcohol content of the herb.
Blue lotus lowers blood sugar and can interfere with its levels during surgery. Hence it should be discontinued for a minimum of two weeks preceding surgeries. It can also decrease blood sugar significantly in people with diabetes and lead to prolonged periods of hypoglycemia, so it should not be used.
On its own, the blue lotus has minimal side effects. However, when mixed with other herbs and chemicals like analgesics, cannabis, and energy drinks, it can cause severe adverse reactions. Therefore, avoid using it with other substances.
Due to a lack of sufficient data regarding its effects on pregnant and breastfeeding women, it is better to avoid using it during these periods.
The Legal Status of Blue Lotus
Subject to many controversies, the blue lotus is now legal in many countries across the world. However, countries like Russia, Romania, Poland, and Latvia began to ban this herb collectively in 2009, citing a resemblance to marijuana products as the cause. Any person found carrying any form of the plant will have to face a sizable penalty.
The USA allows the legal growth, selling, and procurement of the blue lotus and does not consider it a controlled substance. However, the state of Louisiana is an exception to this law. Furthermore, it must be noted that the herb has not been FDA approved for human consumption, which is why products are primarily available in the form of perfumes and tea bags.
Takeaway
In truth, much of the talk surrounding this freshwater plant is speculation at this point. Modern research is still insufficient and needs further development to conclude whether the blue lotus is safe for consumption or not. Therefore whoever wants to use it should think carefully and use it at their own risk.
Kate Freeman is the wellpreneur behind Kratomguides.com, an informative blog focused on spreading the goodness of Mitragyna Speciosa. Kate supports scientific research on this natural tree “Kratom” and believes that this herb can help millions of people to live a healthier life. She works with many kratom vendors to help extend their brand influence online. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, cooking, trying new recipes, and locating reliable stores selling kratom on sale.
