Semen Nelumbinis
Lotus Seed

Source:
The mature seed of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (Fam. Nymphaeaceae).

Distribution:
Mainly in Chinese provinces such as Hunan, Hubei, Fujian, Jiangsu and Jiangxi; also in Hong Kong.

Harvest & Processing:
Cut off lotus seedpods in autumn when fruits ripen; take out fruits; remove fruit shells while fresh; dry seeds under the sun.

Description:
Slightly ellipsoid (elliptical in long-section and circular in crosssection) or subspherical; 1.2-1.7 cm long; 0.8-1.5 cm in diameter. Outer surface light yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, marked with fine longitudinal striae and relatively thick venous (vein-like) striae; apex with a papilla in the centre; papilla dark brown, often marked with cracks, slightly dented around the edge. Testa thin, stuck fast to cotyledons, does not peel off easily. Hard; 2 plump yellowish-white cotyledons revealed when cut open; centre dented and sulciform (groove-like), with a green lotus plumule. Odourless; taste: sweet and slightly astringent, lotus plumule extremely bitter.

Indications:
1. Diarrhoea
2.Nocturnal emission, enuresis, leukorrhagia
3. Palpitation, vexation, insomnia, excessive dreams, tinnitus, soreness and weakness of the back and lower extremities

Chemical Composition:
The lotus plumule contains alkaloids such as liensinine and pronuciferine and flavonoids such as rutin.

Note:
Also used as lotus plumule for medicinal purposes are the young leaf and radicle of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.