The blue lotus flower (Nymphaea caerulea) has captivated human fascination for millennia. From its sacred role in ancient Egyptian rituals to its continued use in modern wellness practices, blue lotus offers a unique blend of psychoactive and medicinal benefits.
While stocking up on supplies for our Joni K. Rocher June Shrooms & Blooms Blends, we headed to the incredibly well stocked Terra Apothecary on South Broadway in Denver. After chatting with Terra’s helpful and friendly cofounder, Dylan, we were intrigued by the brightness, beauty, and believed benefits for which these flowers are revered for.
I dove into a few hours of research, and am so glad I stocked up on a bag of these blue beauties. I think they’ll make a dreamy little addition to my stash, and an intriguing ingredient in a future Joni K. blend. I’ll share updates on my blue lotus experimentation over on the Hey, Joni. Instagram account, and will update this post right here once I’ve experimented and have solid YAYs or NAYs on the blue lotus preparation methods my research convinced me to try.
For now, here’s a recap of what I learned. Enjoy a micro history lesson on how Egyptians used blue lotus as an ancient elixir, along with suggestions for how to use blue lotus today as part of your self-care ritual should it call to you, and benefits and risks that’ll help you weigh your decision.
[Disclaimer: This content is presented for research purposes only & does not constitute medical or health advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your wellness routine. The use of herbs, including blue lotus and others mentioned in this article, should be approached with caution and in moderation. Individual responses to herbs may vary, and it is important to use them safely and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.]
Blue Lotus was deeply embedded in ancient Egyptian culture, where it symbolized rebirth and the sun.
Often depicted in artwork and hieroglyphs, the flower was associated with the gods and was a staple in religious ceremonies. Egyptians would soak the petals in wine to release their psychoactive properties, creating a euphoric and relaxed state that was believed to connect them to the divine.
Since then, blue lotus has been utilized across cultures for its psychoactive and medicinal properties.
In Africa, traditional healers used Blue Lotus for its sedative and calming effects, particularly in managing anxiety and insomnia. The flower’s ability to induce a mild trance-like state made it a valuable tool in spiritual and healing rituals.
In contemporary wellness circles, Blue Lotus is celebrated for its natural ability to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and enhance mood. It’s often used in teas, tinctures, and essential oils to harness its soothing benefits.
Blue lotus is often consumed as a sleep aid, for stress relief, and for its subtle psychoactive effects.
When consumed, it can induce a state of mild euphoria, enhancing mood and providing a sense of calm. Users often report feeling more relaxed and emotionally balanced, making it a popular natural remedy for stress and anxiety. The flower contains apomorphine and nuciferine, alkaloids that interact with dopamine receptors in the brain, contributing to its mood-enhancing properties.
The psychoactive benefits of blue lotus are attributed to its alkaloids, primarily apomorphine and nuciferine. Apomorphine is a dopamine agonist, which means it can stimulate dopamine receptors in the brain, leading to feelings of pleasure and reward. Nuciferine, on the other hand, has calming effects, helping to reduce anxiety and promote a relaxed state of mind.
Some blue lotus rituals we can get behind…
Brew up a cup of blue lotus tea
One of the simplest methods is to brew blue lotus petals into a tea. Simply steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried petals in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Add honey or lemon to taste. This preparation is said to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Pre-bedtime blue lotus soak
For a pre-bedtime blue lotus soak, simply add dried blue lotus flowers to a warm bath. Soak in the fragrant water for 15-20 minutes before bed to unwind and promote relaxation.
Bespoke smoke with a botanical blue lotus blend
For a different experience, Blue Lotus petals can be smoked or vaporized. This method can provide a more immediate and potent effect. Dylan from Terra Apothecary recommended smoking blue lotus petals on their own, or mixing them with mugwort, also known for its relaxing and dream-enhancing properties, and when combined with blue lotus, mugwort can potentially amplify the dream-like effects of the blend.
We’re going to try throwing both in our Edie Parker Crush Cones (which, hey, happen to be sold in our Gift Shop!). To improve flavor and sensory experience, we’re going to throw in some calendula and rose petals, also scooped up at Terra Apothecary, to enhance the delicate floral aroma and flavor to our bespoke smoke blend.
Note: Some people also report stimulating effects from smoking mugwort, so as with any plant medicine, it’s advisable to start with a small amount to see how your body reacts.
Blue lotus risks & side effects to consider
While blue lotus is generally considered safe for most people when used in moderation, there are certain individuals who should avoid its use due to potential risks or interactions. While rare, some individuals may experience side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or allergic reactions when using blue lotus. It is advisable to start with a small amount to assess tolerance.
Who should avoid blue lotus?
1. Pregnant or Nursing Women: Due to a lack of research on the effects of blue lotus during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is advisable for pregnant or nursing women to avoid using blue lotus to err on the side of caution.
2. Children: Blue lotus is not recommended for use in children due to a lack of research on its safety in this population.
3. Individuals with Liver Conditions: There is some concern that blue lotus may have hepatotoxic effects, meaning it could potentially harm the liver. Individuals with liver conditions should avoid using blue lotus or consult with a healthcare provider before doing so.
4. Individuals Taking Medications: Blue lotus may interact with certain medications, including sedatives, anti-anxiety medications, and blood pressure medications. If you are taking any medications, especially those that affect the central nervous system or blood pressure, consult with your healthcare provider before using blue lotus.
5. Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to blue lotus or other plants in the Nymphaeaceae family. If you have known allergies to plants in this family, it is advisable to avoid blue lotus.
6. Driving or Operating Machinery: Blue lotus may cause drowsiness or sedation in some individuals. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how blue lotus affects you.
[Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or health advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health or wellness routine, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking medications. The use of herbs, including blue lotus and others mentioned on this website, should be approached with caution and in moderation. Individual responses to herbs may vary, and it is important to use them safely and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.]