Blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) is an Egyptian water lily that has historically been used for its health benefits. The plant is increasingly being used both for medicinal and recreational purposes. Although it is legal to purchase blue lotus, it is not approved by the regulating authorities for human consumption and may pose some risks.
- Blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) is a type of water lily that is native to Egypt, where it has been used since the 14th century BC for ceremonial, spiritual, and healing purposes.
- Potential benefits of blue lotus include improving sleep, anxiety, depression, and erectile dysfunction.
- In high doses, blue lotus has psychoactive effects that can cause psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations.
Introduction to the blue lotus
The blue lotus, also known as water lily and Egyptian lotus, is a plant that has been used historically as a traditional healing and spiritual tool in Egypt, where it is sacred and culturally significant. Part of the Nymphaeaceae family, Nymphaea caerulea (blue lotus) is a water lily that grows in various regions of the world in rivers and lakes. [1]
It is native to areas of the African continent, most commonly along the Nile. It has since been introduced to other countries around the world, as it is a popular ornamental plant. [2]
The blue lotus has round, flat leaves, similar to other water lilies, that float on top of the water, while the bottom part of the plant is submerged. It produces flowers of 15-20 cm in diameter, which rise above the water surface as a bud, and once open, last around four days. The petals can be different colors, but often are pale or sky blue, with a pale yellow center. [1]
Historical significance in Egyptian culture
Blue lotus is believed to have been used historically in Ancient Egypt as far back as the 14th century BC. Images of the blue lotus have been found on ancient artifacts, including papyri and within tombs, indicating its cultural significance. [1][3]
There is evidence to suggest that the plant was used in healing and spiritual ceremonies. For example, blue lotus is mentioned several times in The Egyptian Book of the Dead, a famous collection of texts that detail many aspects of Ancient Egyptian culture, religion, and afterlife. [4][5] This text indicates that the blue lotus represented life, rebirth, and immortality to the Ancient Egyptians and provided a connection and communication with the afterlife. Additionally, it was known to be used as an aphrodisiac, a pain reliever, and a mood regulator. [5]
Modern uses and potential benefits of blue lotus
Today, blue lotus is sold as a dietary supplement and, although it is not approved for human consumption by the Food and Drug Administration, is used for its medicinal effects. Research into its effects is limited, and most of these reports are anecdotal or self-reported. [1][3]
Because of its calming and sedating effects, blue lotus is commonly used to help treat insomnia and other sleep disturbances and anxiety symptoms. [3] Other potential uses and benefits of blue lotus include: [1][3]
- Improving mood and depression symptoms
- Treating erectile dysfunction
- Pain relief
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Improved motor control, particularly for those with Parkinson’s disease
Additionally, blue lotus is found to have a high polyphenol content, which means that it is a good source of antioxidants. As such, it can help to slow aging effects, improve cell growth, and benefit heart health. [6]
Some people use blue lotus in high doses to produce euphoric, hallucinogenic, and mind-altering effects. [7]
Psychoactive compounds of blue lotus and their effects
Blue lotus produces soothing, mildly stimulating effects due to apomorphine and nuciferine, alkaloids that influence dopamine and serotonin activity to elevate mood and promote relaxation. [3]
Typical psychoactive experiences involve:
- Mild euphoria and relaxation: Users often report feelings of calmness, reduced anxiety, and a gentle uplift in mood, making blue lotus popular as a natural anxiolytic and sleep aid.
- Sedation and sleep enhancement: The calming effects can lead to mild sedation, helping some users fall asleep more easily without intense grogginess.
- Mild hallucinations and altered perception: At higher doses or when smoked or vaporized, blue lotus can induce mild visual and auditory hallucinations, as well as a dream-like state. These effects are generally subtle compared to stronger psychoactive substances.
- Increased libido: Historically, blue lotus was used as an aphrodisiac, and some users report enhanced sensuality and sexual excitement linked to its psychoactive action.
Although the original plant contains both alkaloids, many of the blue lotus products sold online are found to only contain nuciferine, and with differing concentrations. [3][7]
Methods of consumption
Blue lotus is sold online and in stores, as dried plant, tea, oils, and extracts. It can be ingested, brewed, and drank, smoked, and vaped. [1]
- Teas and dried petals can be added to hot water, which creates a soothing tea.
- Oils can be rubbed on the skin, inhaled, added to a diffuser, or consumed, depending on the form and dosage. This might be used to reduce anxiety or help with sleep.
- In recent years, blue lotus has been used in e-cigarettes or vapes. Liquids, extracts, and resins can be added to the various types of available vape and e-cigarette, which heat or burn the product, creating a vapor or smoke that is inhaled. [3]
Potential side effects and safety considerations
While blue lotus has gained popularity for its calming and mildly psychoactive properties, it’s important to understand what you’re actually consuming—and what effects or risks may come with it. Michael Villarreal, CEO of Tres Vistas Recovery, explains the risks of blue lotus below.
Medical advisor
CADC-II
Content quality concerns
A key factor to consider when purchasing and using blue lotus products is that it is difficult to determine the authenticity and content of any extract, liquid, or oil. Products sold online have been found to vary significantly in their content, with differences in their apomorphine and nuciferine concentrations.
Because of this, people using these products may be unable to accurately presume the dosage used, potentially creating a more potent effect than anticipated. [3]
Side effects
Depending on the dosage, blue lotus can produce multiple effects, which can range from desirable and pleasant to disorientating and unpleasant. Effects can include: [1][7]
- Sedation
- Perceptual changes, which lead to difficulty processing sounds, smells, and sights from your surroundings
- Hallucinations
- Euphoria
- Agitation
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Chest pain
- Disorientation
Medical advisor
CADC-II
Other considerations
Blue lotus is not a regulated or controlled substance, and there is limited research into the dose-dependent effects. Because of this, its use can cause risks, and it may affect people differently.
It may be advisable for people who are pregnant and breastfeeding to avoid using blue lotus, due to the uncertainty around its safety. Additionally, people with mental health conditions may experience negative effects from blue lotus and may wish to consult with a medical professional before use.
Combining blue lotus with other medications or substances could cause or increase risks and may create more potent psychoactive effects.
Medical advisor
CADC-II
Legal status and regulation
In the US, blue lotus is not illegal to sell, buy, or use. It is not listed in the Controlled Substances Act and is not regulated by the FDA. Blue lotus products are marketed as dietary supplements and can be sold legally throughout the US, apart from Louisiana, where it is prohibited. [7] Also, blue lotus is included on the list of DoD Prohibited Dietary Supplement Ingredients, which means that it is not permitted for any military service members to use the plant. [8]
Blue lotus is legal and unregulated in most countries, although a few countries have prohibited the sale and use of the plant, like Russia. [9]
Addiction risks and treatment
Currently, there is no research regarding the addiction potential of blue lotus. However, studies show that the aporphine alkaloids found in the plant impact the level and activity of dopamine, which is the primary neurotransmitter involved in the development of addiction.
As such, there may be some potential for blue lotus to lead to the development of psychological or physical dependence, particularly if used in large quantities for prolonged periods. Signs of addiction can include:
- Increasing the amount and frequency of use
- Impairments in social, professional, or personal functioning due to use
- Significant changes in mood or behavior both when using substance and in the absence of the substance
- Impairments in memory, concentration, or motivation
People who have been using blue lotus and have noticed any concerning signs of addiction or withdrawal may wish to consult with a professional for advice and treatment in managing their use.
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