What are the functions and benefits of lotus seeds?
Jul 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the effects and benefits of lotus seeds mainly include nourishing the spleen and stopping diarrhea, calming the mind and soothing the nerves, benefiting the kidneys and consolidifying essence, providing nutritional supplementation, and controlling leukorrhea. Although lotus seeds are beneficial, they should not be consumed in excess, as this may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract and cause abdominal distension or indigestion. Individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold are advised to consume lotus seeds only after they are thoroughly cooked, and intake should not be excessive.
Generally speaking, the effects and functions of lotus seeds mainly include nourishing the spleen and stopping diarrhea, nourishing the heart and calming the mind, benefiting the kidneys and consolidating essence, providing nutrition, and reducing leukorrhea. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Nourishing the Spleen and Stopping Diarrhea
Lotus seeds enter the spleen meridian and can enhance the functions of the spleen and stomach, improving symptoms such as poor appetite and indigestion caused by spleen and stomach weakness. Its astringent property can tighten the intestines and has a good regulatory effect on prolonged diarrhea, helping the gastrointestinal system return to normal digestion and absorption.
2. Nourishing the Heart and Calming the Mind
Lotus seeds contain various alkaloids, which act on the nervous system to exert a calming effect, alleviating negative emotions such as anxiety and irritability. For insomnia, frequent dreams, palpitations, and uneasiness caused by an agitated mind, moderate consumption of lotus seeds can soothe the mind and improve sleep quality.
3. Benefiting the Kidneys and Consolidating Essence
Lotus seeds can nourish the kidneys and strengthen their consolidating function, offering some regulatory benefits for problems such as seminal emission and spermatorrhea caused by kidney deficiency. They are suitable for individuals with kidney deficiency to include in their daily diet to improve related symptoms.
4. Providing Nutrition
Lotus seeds are rich in protein, carbohydrates, various vitamins (such as B vitamins), and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. They also contain abundant dietary fiber. Consuming lotus seeds provides the body with multiple essential nutrients, helping to strengthen physical constitution and enhance immune function.
5. Reducing Leukorrhea
The astringent and consolidating properties of lotus seeds can act on leukorrhea, alleviating symptoms such as excessive, pale, and thin vaginal discharge in women. They help regulate body fluid metabolism and improve abnormal leukorrhea, making lotus seeds a commonly used ingredient in managing gynecological leukorrhea disorders.
Although lotus seeds are beneficial, they should not be consumed in excess, as this may burden the gastrointestinal system, causing bloating and indigestion. People with spleen and stomach cold deficiency are advised to consume them fully cooked and avoid excessive intake. Special populations, such as pregnant women, children, and individuals with chronic diseases, should consult a physician before consumption to ensure safety. Additionally, when consuming lotus seeds, it is important to choose high-quality products and avoid those that are spoiled or contaminated.
