Lotus Leaf (Nelumbo nucifera)

Dried leaves of Nelumbo nucifera, the Sacred Lotus of Asia. The same plant as our Pink Lotus product (which is the flower) - these are the large round leaves that famously float on the water surface or stand above it on long stems. Lotus leaves are used in Asian cuisine (particularly for wrapping rice dishes in dim sum), in TCM, and as a daily tea across multiple Asian cultures.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Nelumbo nucifera

Family

Nelumbonaceae

Common names

Sacred Lotus, Asian Lotus, Indian Lotus

Part used

Large round leaves

Native region

South and Southeast Asia

TCM classification

Cooling, "heat-clearing," used in summer-heat preparations

Famous property

The "lotus effect" - water beads up and rolls off the leaf surface

What is Lotus Leaf?

Lotus leaves are the large round leaves of the Sacred Lotus, which famously float on the water surface or stand above it on tall stems. The leaves are remarkable for their superhydrophobicity - water beads up and rolls off, carrying dirt with it (the "lotus effect," which inspired the scientific concept of self-cleaning surfaces). In Asian cuisine, lotus leaves are used to wrap rice dishes (the classic Chinese dim sum "lotus leaf wrapped sticky rice"). In TCM, the leaves are classified as cooling and are used in summer-heat preparations.

How to Use Lotus Leaf

Tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves per 8 oz cup in hot water for 5-10 minutes; strain. Food wrapping: rehydrate dried leaves in warm water for use as wrappers for rice dishes (the classic Chinese dim sum preparation). TCM decoction: simmer with other herbs in traditional formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lotus Leaf used for?
Tea, Asian food wrapping (particularly Chinese dim sum sticky rice), and TCM preparations.

What's the lotus effect?
The remarkable water repellency of lotus leaves; water beads up and rolls off, carrying dirt with it. The phenomenon inspired the scientific concept of self-cleaning surfaces.

Are the leaves edible?
The leaves are not typically eaten directly but are used for wrapping foods - the aromatic compounds infuse into the food during steaming.

What does lotus leaf tea taste like?
Earthy, slightly grassy, gently aromatic.

Is the same plant as Pink Lotus?
Yes; Nelumbo nucifera produces both the flowers (Pink Lotus / Sacred Lotus flowers) and the leaves.

What's the TCM use?
Classified as cooling and "heat-clearing"; used in summer-heat preparations and digestive support formulas.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.