Blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)Shredded, 25 g

About blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)

Nymphaea caerulea, known primarily as blue lotus (or blue Egyptian lotus), but also blue water lily (or blue Egyptian water lily), and sacred blue lily, is a water lily in the genus Nymphaea. The flower closes its petals during the dark night, and opens up again after the sun rises. The plant originates from the Nile area and other parts of East-Africa and was considered a sacred plant by the ancient Egyptians. There are many hieroglyphics depicting the blue lotus in acts of inebriation, ceremony, and debauchery. In fact, some archaeologists support the theory that the blue lotus is the ancient Egyptians #1 entheogen.

Besides Egypt, the lotus is revered in many other cultures as being a sacred and holy flower. In Hinduism the lotus flower is considered to hold the highest sacred energy. It represents beauty and non-attachment. Some Tibetan monks also use lotus flowers in a extracted paste during specific meditations.

Effect of blue lotus

This herb can be deeply relaxing for the body and the mind. Its soothing qualities make it great for meditation and yogic practices. It provides a mild sense of tranquillity and euphoria, along with an altered sense of awareness. Its effects famously combine very well with wine, which illuminate the social and euphoric aspect. Some users also report a pleasant feeling of warmth around the head and upper body and a dream like feeling – as if life itself were a waking dream.

Active ingredients

The two main active substances in blue lotus that are responsible for the flower’s various effects are the alkaloids nuciferine and aporphine (not to be confused with apomorphine).

A 1978 study found that nuciferine blocks dopamine receptors and has a relaxing, sedative effect. Aporphine in particular is a dopamine D1 antagonist, meaning it blocks a specific dopamine receptor. Dopamine receptors in the brain play a role in mood, pleasure, motivation, memory, and more. Blocking dopamine reception means more dopamine – the happiness neurotransmitter – stays in the synapse, potentially leading to a temporary feeling of well-being.

How to use blue lotus

To make tea, take 5 grams and soak in hot water. For a traditional Egyptian drink, soak the flowers in wine for several hours. Use approximately 5 grams per bottle. Do not exceed the recommended dosage: blue lotus makes the wine bitter and hard to drink. Sweet wine like a desert wine is generally recommended.

The herb can also be vaped with an vaporizer. Use 0.25-0.5g and vape at 100°C to 125°C degrees. The aporphine alkaloid vaporizes at 125 degrees Celsius.

Storage advice

Store blue lotus in its original packaging in a dry and cool place, out of the reach of children.

Safety

Consult with an expert in case of illness, medication, pregnancy and breastfeeding before using this product. Not suitable for people under the age of 18. Stop using this product immediately if you experience any unwanted side effects.

This products is legal in The Netherlands. Worldherbals cannot provide information about the legal status of this product in other countries. If you are not sure if the ordered product is legal in the country where it should be sent, please inform yourself about this issue with the authorities of the country itself. If you order this product to a country outside the Netherlands, you do this entirely at your own risk and you automatically safeguard Worldherbals from any form of legal liability.