Blue lotus syrup is a natural herbal syrup made from the blue lotus flower (Nymphea caerulea). The blue lotus is a water lily that has been used for thousands of years in ancient Egyptian and Mayan cultures for its medicinal and spiritual properties. In recent years, blue lotus syrup has seen a revival in popularity as a natural remedy and botanical tonic.
What is the Blue Lotus Flower?
The blue lotus is a beautiful water lily that grows wild in ponds, lakes, and slow moving rivers in parts of Africa and Asia. The blue lotus species, Nymphaea caerulea, derives its name from its blue colored flowers that resemble the color of the evening sky just before dusk. Other names for the blue lotus include:
- Blue water lily
- Egyptian lotus
- Sacred blue lily
- Blue Egyptian lotus
The blue lotus plant has large, round green leaves that float on top of the water and blue or bluish-purple flowers that emerge from the water and bloom during the daylight hours. At night, the flowers close and sink underwater. Blue lotus flowers have 20-30 petals arranged in a radial pattern with a bright yellow center.
History and Significance
Historically, the blue lotus has been cultivated in the Nile region and along the Nile river, where it was found growing abundantly. Ancient Egyptians viewed the plant as having great medicinal and spiritual importance.
Blue lotus flowers were highly revered by ancient Egyptians. The flowers were valued for their medicinal and hallucinogenic properties. Egyptians brewed the flower into teas and steeped them in wine for medicinal rituals.
The blue lotus is believed to possess spiritually uplifting properties and played an important role in ancient Egyptian spirituality. The Ancient Egyptians associated the blue lotus flower with rebirth and the Sun God Ra. The plants were considered to have divine origins and were associated with the flooding of the Nile River, which brought life and fertility to the lands.
In Egyptian art and artifacts, the blue lotus is prevalent and frequently depicted. It is featured prominently in ancient Egyptian motifs, architecture, paintings, and carvings. The blue lotus was considered a symbol of spirituality, fertility, rebirth, and enlightenment.
Making Blue Lotus Syrup
Blue lotus syrup is made from the dried flowers of the Nymphaea caerulea. The dried stigmas from inside the center of the blue lotus flower are the main ingredient that give blue lotus syrup its signature blue color.
To make blue lotus syrup, the dried blue lotus stigmas are steeped in a simple syrup solution for several weeks. The simple syrup is made from water and sugar which helps extract the beneficial compounds from the blue lotus flower. Popular ratios are 1:4 or 1:3 blue lotus to sugar.
During this long steeping process, the water soluble plant compounds, beneficial phytonutrients, and blue plant pigments infuse into the syrup, giving it a deep blue hue. The longer the blue lotus stigmas steep, the deeper blue in color and more concentrated the syrup becomes. 6-8 weeks is ideal.
Step-by-Step Blue Lotus Syrup Recipe
- Add 1 cup of dried blue lotus stigmas to a quart size mason jar.
- Heat 4 cups of water and stir in 3 cups of natural cane sugar or honey until dissolved. Allow simple syrup to cool.
- Pour the cooled simple syrup over the dried blue lotus in the mason jar. Stir or shake gently to combine.
- Place lid on mason jar and store in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar once per day.
- Allow the blue lotus syrup to steep for 6-8 weeks. Be patient for full extraction.
- After the steeping time has passed, strain the blue lotus syrup through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
- Store in the refrigerator or freezer for long term storage. The blue lotus syrup will last for months.
This produces a concentrated, medicinal strength blue lotus syrup that can be taken by the tablespoon or mixed into beverages. The syrup has a mild, pleasant taste and floral, herbaceous notes from the blue lotus flower.
Benefits and Effects of Blue Lotus Syrup
Blue lotus syrup has been used for thousands of years as a natural plant-based medicine. Modern research is now confirming many of the traditional beneficial uses of the blue lotus. Here are some of the top evidence-based benefits:
1. Supports Relaxation and Tranquility
Blue lotus contains apomorphine alkaloids and other soothing plant compounds that promote relaxation and a sense of tranquility. The mild sedative effects can help calm nervous tension and racing thoughts.
Many report blue lotus syrup helps induce a meditative, peaceful state of mind. It may promote restful sleep when taken before bedtime.
2. Uplifts Mood
Research has found the apomorphine alkaloids in blue lotus have psychoactive properties that influence dopamine receptors in the brain. This gives blue lotus mild mood-enhancing and euphoric qualities.
Many people use blue lotus syrup to naturally boost their mood and reduce mild feelings of sadness or anxiousness. The uplifting properties can help supplement depression and anxiety treatment.
3. Supports Brain Health
Early research suggests blue lotus may be neuroprotective and help support cognitive function. The alkaloids found in blue lotus may activate neurotransmitter pathways involved in memory, learning, and cognitive performance.
Regular use of blue lotus syrup may help defend against age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia. More human research is still needed.
4. Rich in Antioxidants
The blue lotus flower contains a wealth of antioxidant plant pigments called anthocyanins and flavonoids. These antioxidants help defend against cell damage from oxidative stress and free radicals.
The antioxidants in blue lotus syrup scavenge these harmful compounds and support whole body health, cell regeneration, and anti-aging activity.
5. Natural Aphrodisiac
Dating back to Ancient Egyptian times, the blue lotus has been used as a natural aphrodisiac to boost libido and sexual function. Compounds like ginsengoside act on androgen receptors involved in sexual desire and performance.
Modern science validates the blue lotus as a natural alternative for low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and difficulties reaching orgasm. The increase in nitric oxide may improve blood flow and arousal.
6. Supports Healthy Sleep
The compounds in blue lotus encourage restful sleep in a number of ways. The muscle-relaxing and anxiety-reducing effects promote calmness and sleep onset. Blue lotus may also lengthen rapid eye movement (REM) sleep stages.
Drinking blue lotus syrup before bedtime can help those struggling with insomnia fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly through the night.
7. May Ease Menstrual Discomfort
Traditional practices used blue lotus flowers to provide comfort and relief from menstrual cramps and pains. The analgesic and muscle-relaxing effects can alleviate cramping and discomfort.
For women suffering from difficult monthly cycles, blue lotus syrup may provide a natural alternative to synthetic painkillers without harsh side effects. More research is still emerging.
Are There Any Side Effects?
When used in moderation, blue lotus syrup is considered generally well-tolerated by most people. There are very few reported adverse effects. However, some good safety practices include:
- Avoid excessive usage – Mild headaches or nausea can occur if overused.
- Don’t combine with other substances – Blue lotus syrup may interact with alcohol, medications, or other herbs and supplements.
- Pregnant women should exercise caution – There is limited safety research for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers.
- Supervise children’s use – Do not give blue lotus syrup to young children without medical approval.
Always talk to your healthcare provider before trying blue lotus syrup, especially if taking any medications or have an underlying health condition. Start slowly with small doses and increase gradually as needed.
Recommended Dosage
There are currently no standardized dosing guidelines for blue lotus syrup. Recommended dosages are based on traditional preparation methods and anecdotal reports of safety and efficacy.
Most people find a dosage of 5-30 mL per day provides relaxation and mood-enhancing benefits without significant side effects. This equates to around 1-2 teaspoons up to 1-2 tablespoons per day.
The best dosage depends on the concentration or potency of compounds in your specific blue lotus syrup preparation. Try starting on the lower end of 5-15 mL per day and adjust up or down as needed.
You can dilute the syrup in a glass of water or juice. For sleep benefits, take your dosage about 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Some also use blue lotus syrup topically for skin health, diluted in a cream or carrier oil.
It’s advised to take routine breaks from using blue lotus syrup daily to avoid building too much tolerance to the effects. Cycle off for a few days per week.
Is Blue Lotus Syrup Legal?
In most parts of the world, including the United States, blue lotus syrup is considered legal. The blue lotus plant itself is not scheduled as an illegal or controlled substance. Therefore, blue lotus preparations like syrup are legal to buy, sell, and use in most jurisdictions.
However, some countries do prohibit parts of the blue lotus plant. For example, Russia banned the sales of Nymphaea caerulea flowers. Thailand also banned certain members of the Nymphaeaceae family.
It’s always important to check your local laws and regulations regarding blue lotus products to ensure legality in your area before purchasing or using blue lotus syrup. The legal status is subject to change over time.
Where to Buy Blue Lotus Syrup
Blue lotus syrup can be purchased from various online specialty retailers, herbal apothecaries, and natural health stores. Here are some reputable places to buy blue lotus syrup:
Small Batch Herbal Companies
Many smaller herbal companies handcraft blue lotus syrup in small batches and offer direct online sales. Boutique syrup makers often have high quality whole flowers and natural ingredients. Prices range from $15-$30 per bottle.
Online Herbal Shops
There are a number of herbal medicine shops online that carry medicinal blends like blue lotus syrup. Popular shops like Starwest Botanicals, Herbies Herbs, and Buddha Teas sell blue lotus syrup.
Amazon and eBay
Large online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay have a decent selection of blue lotus syrup products available. Prices arecompetitive but quality varies, so read reviews carefully when purchasing.
Health Food Stores
Some independent natural health food stores and herbal apothecaries sell blue lotus syrup locally or offer online ordering. Availability depends on your location. Call ahead or check websites to confirm.
No matter where you purchase blue lotus syrup from, always look for reputable, high-quality suppliers. Check company reviews and production methods for safety.
How to Make Blue Lotus Syrup at Home
For those interested in making DIY blue lotus syrup at home, the process is relatively simple. Here is an overview of how to make basic blue lotus syrup:
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried blue lotus stigmas
- 4 cups water
- 3 cups organic cane sugar or honey
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Mason jar
- Mesh strainer
- Spoon for mixing
Instructions
- Simmer water and sugar/honey in a saucepan until dissolved into a simple syrup.
- Remove from heat and add the dried blue lotus stigmas to the simple syrup in a mason jar.
- Mix together and cover. Steep for 6-8 weeks in a cool, dark place.
- Shake the jar daily to mix the ingredients.
- Strain the finished blue lotus syrup through a mesh strainer before use.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Making your own blue lotus syrup allows you to control the ingredients and adjust to your preferred concentration.
Recipes Using Blue Lotus Syrup
Blue lotus syrup is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of beverages, foods, and homemade health remedies. Here are some popular ways to use blue lotus syrup:
Blue Lotus Tea
Add 1-2 teaspoons of blue lotus syrup to a cup of hot tea, herbal infusion, or just hot water. Mix well and sip slowly. Chamomile, mint, and lavender complement it nicely.
Blue Latte
Stir 1-2 tablespoons of blue lotus syrup into coffee, coffee alternatives, hot cocoa, or milk of choice. Top with foamed milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Blue Lotus Cocktails
Mix blue lotus syrup into lemonade, champagne, martinis, spritzers, or use in place of simple syrup in cocktails. Use 0.5 to 1 ounce per drink.
Blue Lotus Macarons
Add a few teaspoons of blue lotus syrup to the filling or ganache for unique blue-colored, medicinal macarons.
Blue Lotus Skincare
Dilute blue lotus syrup in a little water or coconut oil and apply topically to the skin as a nourishing face mask or lotion.
Blue Lotus Tonic
Make a medicinal tonic by mixing 1-2 tablespoons blue lotus syrup with 4-8 ounces of water. Drink daily. Can add lemon, ginger, honey, etc.
There are endless ways to get creative with blue lotus syrup in foods, drinks, DIY skincare, and natural remedies. Adjust to taste preferences and desired effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does blue lotus syrup taste like?
Blue lotus syrup has a mildly sweet, floral taste. It is not overpowering in flavor. The taste is pleasant with herbal and woody notes. Some describe it as a mellow plum flavor.
What color is blue lotus syrup?
Properly made blue lotus syrup ranges from light sky blue to deep purple-blue in color depending on the concentration. The more vivid blue and purple tones indicate a higher concentration of blue lotus flower compounds.
How do you use blue lotus syrup?
Blue lotus syrup can be taken by the spoonful directly or mixed into water, tea, coffee, smoothies, milk, juice, cocktails, lemonade, and many other beverages. It can also be used in baked goods, desserts, face masks, lotions, and other DIY projects.
What does blue lotus syrup feel like?
Blue lotus syrup provides a mild relaxing effect for both body and mind. Many report feelings of calmness, lowered anxiety, increased mood, mental clarity, and tranquility. Some experience euphoric sensations. At higher doses, it may have mild sedative effects.
Can you vape blue lotus syrup?
No, blue lotus syrup should not be vaped or inhaled. The syrup is thick and sticky and could pose inhalation risks. Only the dried blue lotus flower itself can be smoked or made into a vape juice, but this is not recommended either.