Snow Lotus is an exquisite herb often mentioned in Chinese media and hailed as an elixir. This herb boasts numerous medicinal properties and is revered by the Chinese as a precious remedy, comparable to ginseng and lingzhi.
1 What is Snow Lotus?
Origin and Significance of Snow Lotus
Origin and Significance of Snow Lotus
Origin
Snow Lotus, also known as Snow Lotus Flower or Tian Shan Xue Lian in Chinese, was first discovered in China. It grows at altitudes of 3500-4000 meters in mountain crevices and cliffs covered in snow year-round, such as the Tian Shan and Himalayas ranges. Hence, it is named after the Tian Shan mountains, meaning “snow lotus of the heavenly mountains.”
Significance
Declared a national treasure by Xinjiang in 2007, this exquisite flower is not only renowned for its beauty but also serves as a poetic inspiration. The Snow Lotus, thriving in harsh conditions on treacherous cliffs, symbolizes resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Characteristics and Classification of Snow Lotus
Characteristics and Classification of Snow Lotus
Characteristics
The Snow Lotus has a shape resembling a cabbage with dark green, slightly curled leaves embracing the flower bud. Its petals are white with a golden hue, and the stamens are purple-red.
Classification
Snow Lotus, with the scientific name Saussurea involucrata, may appear similar to a lotus flower, but it actually belongs to the Asteraceae family, the daisy or sunflower family. In 1920, Japanese scientist Dr. Ichiro Ohga performed carbon dating on Snow Lotus seeds and found them to be over a thousand years old.
2 Benefits of Snow Lotus
Benefits of Snow Lotus
Health Benefits
Snow Lotus has a neutral nature and a sweet taste. It is believed to promote blood circulation, enhance qi and blood, regulate menstruation, and improve sexual health. It contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and other compounds that boost immunity and combat fatigue.
Additionally, Snow Lotus is used in cardiac medications, cancer treatments, hypertension management, and remedies for bone and joint ailments, as well as lung-related conditions. However, it is important to note that pregnant women should refrain from consuming Snow Lotus as it may induce uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage. It is also not recommended for children under ten years of age.
Beauty Benefits
Rich in protein, Snow Lotus helps maintain youthful skin and improves bone, tendon, and ligament elasticity. The amino acids in Snow Lotus also aid in reducing body fat and supporting effective weight loss.
Culinary Uses
Snow Lotus-Infused Wine
To make Snow Lotus wine, use 5-7 liters of 35-degree alcohol with Snow Lotus flowers and 1.5-3 liters with the small petals. Allow it to infuse for 45 days before consuming. However, for optimal results, it is best to wait 100 days from the start of infusion. Drink 20-30ml once or twice a day after meals.
Snow Lotus Tea
To make Snow Lotus tea, use 5-7 liters of water for large flowers and 1.5-3 liters for small flowers. Boil the water until it changes color, then turn off the heat and enjoy your tea. To make additional servings, simply add more water and reheat.
For a more economical approach, you can chop the Snow Lotus into smaller pieces and make tea that will last for 10-15 days. Alternatively, you can cook the Snow Lotus, brew it as tea, or grind it into a powder for various culinary applications.
3 How to Grow and Care for Snow Lotus
Growing and Caring for Snow Lotus
Currently, Vietnam does not offer Snow Lotus seeds or direct cultivation due to the herb’s demanding growth requirements. According to records, Snow Lotus has a long germination period of 5-7 years and a short lifespan. However, when returned to its native mountainous habitat, this period is significantly shortened.
If you wish to acquire Snow Lotus, it is advisable to purchase it from reputable sources to ensure the highest quality.
4 8 Beautiful Images of Snow Lotus
Snow Lotus Blanketed in White
Snow Lotus Thriving in Harsh Conditions
Snow Lotus in Soft Light
Snow Lotus in Bloom
Delicate Snow Lotus
Snow Lotus on a Cliff
Snow Lotus in Full Bloom
The First Beauty of Tian Shan
Snow Lotus is a precious herb with numerous benefits. We hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into this remarkable plant.