Lotus Stamen (Lian Xu)

Lotus Stamen (lian xu, 莲须), also known as Stamen Nelumbinis, refers to the stems of the Lotus Flower. Many religions and cultures, such as Buddhists, Hindus and the Ancient Egyptians, all consider Lotus to be a symbol of transcendence. Ancient Greeks often use the image of Lotus in their architecture and art. In Ancient China, many poets and artists also feature Lotus in their creations, praising its purity and elegance.

Other than being a popular symbol in art, many different parts of the Lotus plant have also been used as a culinary vegetable or herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Lian Xu falls under the category of ‘Herbs that stabilise and bind’. Such herbs can treat abnormal discharges and displacement of organs. For example, such herbs can treat conditions like diarrhoea, abnormal discharges from the vagina, penis or rectum, as well as prolapse of the uterus or rectum. Neutral in nature, Lian Xu does not affect the yin-yang balance in the body.

Sweet in taste, Lian Xu can slow down acute reactions, detoxify the body and has a tonic effect on the body by replenishing qi and blood. In particular, Lian Xu targets the Heart and the Kidneys.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) shows that Lian Xu has the following health benefits.

Lian Xu can stabilise the Kidneys, astringe jing and clear Heart Heat. Thus, Lian Xu is indicated for symptoms such as spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, nocturnal emission, urinary incontinence and leukorrhea-related diseases. Also, Lian Xu can treat symptoms of Heart Yin Deficiency by clearing Heart Fire.

In addition, Lian Xu can stop bleeding. For example, Lian Xu is used to treat epistaxis, hematemesis, profuse uterine bleeding and metrorrhagia.

Rich in minerals and nutrients, including high levels of vitamin C and potassium,  Lian Xu may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, manage high blood pressure, regulate blood sugar levels, support cardiovascular health and bone health, and boost one’s immunity.

The recommended daily dosage of Lian Xu is 3 – 9g, when used in the form of pills or powder.

Other than being consumed directly or in the form of supplements, Lian Xu is also enjoyed in salads and side dishes.

Lian Xu and its supplements can be found in many herbal stores and Asian specialty markets.

Lian Xu should not be used by individuals experiencing abdominal distention, constipation, difficult urination or anger caused by the rising of Liver yang.

We strongly encourage you to consult your healthcare provider before deciding to add Lian Xu to your healthcare routine.

Here is a summary for Lotus Stamen (Lian Xu):

• Herb name (Chinese): 莲须
• Herb name (Pin Yin): lián xū
• Herb name (English): Lotus Stamen
• Herb name (Botanical): Stamen Nelumbinis
• Origin of species: Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.
• Part(s) of herb used: Stamen
• Geo-specific habitat(s): Hunan, Fujian, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and other southern parts of China
• Taste(s) & Properties: Sweet, astringent; Neutral; Administrates the Kidney and Heart Meridians
• Actions: Eases conditions associated with seminal and vaginal discharges; Eases frequent urination

Li, S. S., Wu, J., Chen, L. G., Du, H., Xu, Y. J., Wang, L. J., … & Wang, L. S. (2014). Biogenesis of C-glycosyl flavones and profiling of flavonoid glycosides in lotus (Nelumbo nucifera). PLoS One, 9(10), e108860. [Accessed on 20th June 2023]

Liu, J., Guo, Y., Zhang, J., Qi, Y., Jia, X., Gao, G., … & Xiao, P. (2014). Systematic chemical analysis of flavonoids in the Nelumbinis stamen. Phytomedicine, 21(13), 1753-1758.[Accessed on 20th June 2023]

Temviriyanukul, P., Sritalahareuthai, V., Promyos, N., Thangsiri, S., Pruesapan, K., Srinuanchai, W., … & Suttisansanee, U. (2020). The effect of sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) and its mixtures on phenolic profiles, antioxidant activities, and inhibitions of the key enzymes relevant to Alzheimer’s disease. Molecules, 25(16), 3713.[Accessed on 20th June 2023]

Xiang-Fei, C. H. E. N., Shi-Yun, W. A. N., Jian-Hua, D. I. N. G., Tian-Xiang, J. I. N., Li-Min, L. U., & Yong, Q. I. A. N. (2021). Oxygen-sulfur-phosphorus co-doped activated carbon derived from lotus stamens for high-performance supercapacitors. Chinese Journal of Analytical Chemistry, 49(11), 75-81.[Accessed on 20th June 2023]