Lotus Stamen (Yellow-brown, anthers twisted into a spiral shape, filaments slender, curved and flattened, soft)

Lotus Stamen, Lotus Plumule (Lian Zi Xin)

【Name】

Lotus Stamen

 【Source】

Shen Nong’s Classic of Materia Medica, Superior Class

 【Common Use Level】

E

 【Botanical Origin】

The dried stamen of the lotus plant, Nelumbo nucifera Geartn., of the Nymphaeaceae family.

 【Characteristics】

Linear in shape, the flower is approximately 1-1.5 cm long and 0.5 mm in diameter. Mostly twisted into a spiral shape, yellow or light brownish-yellow in color. The 2-locular anthers are longitudinally dehiscent and contain numerous yellow pollen grains. The filaments are thread-like, slightly flattened, and slightly curved, 1-1.6 cm long, brownish-yellow in color, light in weight, with a slightly fragrant odor and a slightly astringent taste.

 【Identification】

Essentials of Materia Medica: “Lotus Stamen, the golden ones are the best.”
The best are those that are dry, intact, fine in texture, light yellow in color, soft in quality, and free from mold and insect damage. Those that are old, moldy, deteriorated, purplish-red, or even earthy black should not be used.

 【Category】

Flowers