During the summer, it’s a common sight to behold vast and lush fields of lotus plants across Vietnam. Typically, farmers harvest the flowers, seeds, and tubers for sale, with the leaves often being discarded. However, recently, people have realized that these discarded leaves are actually a “gold mine,” fetching prices of up to 200,000 VND per kg.

The Benefits of Lotus Leaves

In the past, lotus leaves were often thrown away by lotus farmers, with little attention paid to their potential value. Some thrifty individuals would use them for wrapping sticky rice or green rice cakes, enhancing the aroma and flavor without the need for additional packaging. Nevertheless, these leaves have now found a new purpose as tea, selling for up to 200,000 VND per kg, although many are still unaware of this.

Lotus leaves can be made into tea and sold for up to 200,000 VND per kg

Lotus farmers share that there is a growing demand for lotus leaves in the tea industry, as they offer numerous health benefits that are not commonly known. Traditionally, fresh lotus leaves were used in folk medicine to treat common ailments such as sunstroke, diarrhea, and stomachaches. Dried lotus leaves, on the other hand, can be used to treat hemorrhages.

According to health experts, drinking lotus leaf tea in conjunction with proper exercise can aid in weight loss and maintaining a slim figure effectively and safely without causing fatigue. It is recommended to consume lotus leaf tea at least 30 minutes before a meal or one hour after to avoid any interference with digestion.

However, experts also caution that lotus leaves may not be suitable for individuals with a cold body constitution. Those with a cold constitution may experience fatigue, memory loss, palpitations, and decreased sexual function when consuming lotus leaves. Therefore, it is advised to consult a doctor before using lotus leaves to treat insomnia, as one’s body constitution should be taken into account to avoid any adverse effects.

Additionally, pregnant and lactating women, as well as those menstruating, are advised against consuming lotus leaves, as it may negatively impact their health.

Lotus Leaves Provide a Significant Income Source for Farmers

Lotus is a crop that significantly improves farmers’ income.

Mr. Vu from Nam Dinh province shared that his family has been making lotus leaf tea for three years, but their supply is limited. He explained, “For lotus plants harvested for their flowers, I can also collect the leaves to sell in the market. However, for the ponds where we harvest the tubers, I have to leave the leaves to nourish the tubers.”

As his family mainly focuses on tuber production and developing related products, they have a limited supply of leaves for tea, which they sell for 200,000 VND per kg dry weight.

To prepare the leaves for tea, they are washed, cut into small pieces, and sun-dried. Currently, towards the end of the lotus season, the availability of leaves is decreasing.

Lotus leaves are not only used for tea but also for creating paintings that can fetch prices of up to millions of VND per painting.

Lotus cultivation has proven to be a lucrative venture for farmers, with many households in Hung Ha district, Thai Binh province, reporting income five times higher than that of rice farming. This is attributed to the sale of lotus leaves, which are priced between 15,000 and 30,000 VND per kg.

Frequently asked questions

The Superleaf is a term coined for the leaves of the water hyacinth plant. These leaves have an incredible ability to absorb and filter pollutants, heavy metals, and excess nutrients from wastewater, transforming it into clean water. This process not only purifies the water but also results in the leaves becoming enriched with these nutrients, making them a valuable resource.

The Superleaf plays a crucial role in environmental restoration. By using these leaves to clean wastewater, it reduces the need for chemical treatments and helps restore natural water bodies. Additionally, the Superleaf can be utilized as a sustainable resource, providing a cheap and abundant source of nutrients for agriculture and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

The Superleaf has significant economic potential. After the purification process, the leaves can be sold for $9 per kg, providing a valuable income stream for low-income communities. This also creates a circular economy, as the leaves are transformed from waste into a wonder product with minimal processing required.

The Superleaf is an excellent organic fertilizer. Its high nutrient content, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, makes it a perfect natural alternative to chemical fertilizers. Using the Superleaf in agriculture improves soil health, increases crop yields, and promotes sustainable farming practices.

Yes, the Superleaf has a diverse range of applications. It can be used in the production of paper, animal feed, and even as a source of biofuel. The Superleaf’s versatility and abundance present numerous opportunities for innovation and sustainable development.
You may also like

The Surprising Reason Most Japanese People Choose to Sleep on the Floor Instead of in a Bed

The Japanese have a unique cultural practice of sleeping on the floor instead of in beds. This tradition has garnered intrigue and curiosity from the rest of the world, with many wondering why they opt for this seemingly uncomfortable sleeping arrangement. Unraveling this mystery reveals a deep-rooted connection to their cultural heritage and a myriad of surprising health benefits.

“The Ultimate Morning Superfood: Lose Weight, Get Glowing Skin and Say Goodbye to Acne”

Ginger is not just a spice to add flavor to your food; it is a versatile ingredient with numerous benefits. It can work wonders for your skin and is an effective weight-loss aid.

The Magic of Overnight Brewed Tea: Discover the Surprising Benefits

“It is common knowledge that overnight tea is not the healthiest beverage option, however, it would be unwise to discard it altogether. This humble drink has a multitude of alternative uses and benefits beyond simple consumption, making it a valuable resource in our daily lives.”

“The Secret to Perfectly Pickled Cauliflower: A Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving Bright White, Crisp, and Support-Free Results”

Introducing the ultimate guide to achieving perfectly pickled white cauliflower – crisp, tangy, and free from unsightly discoloration. Unveil the secrets to creating a crunchy, vibrant treat that will impress and delight, with a technique so masterful it borders on art. Learn how to transform ordinary cauliflower into a mouthwatering delicacy, a true testament to your culinary prowess. Get ready to impress!

The Magical Blend: Unlocking the Power of Essential Oils and Vitamin B1

The combination of essential oils and vitamin B1 has sparked curiosity, and for good reason. This dynamic duo is believed to offer a range of benefits, and we’re here to explore just that. Get ready to unlock a whole new world of natural remedies and enhance your well-being!