Lian Fang
Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.
โฏ TCM Properties
Dispels Stasis and Stops Bleeding; Drains Dampness; Invigorates Blood and Dispels Stasis
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Nelumbo nucifera is an aquatic perennial herb in the family Nelumbonaceae, native to Asia and tropical Australia. It grows from a thick, branching rhizome anchored in pond mud, sending up long petioles that bear large, peltate, water-repellent leaves rising above the water. Solitary flowers, 15-25 cm across, range from white to deep pink, with numerous yellow stamens surrounding a distinctive flat-topped, inversely conical receptacle. As the flower fades, this fleshy receptacle enlarges, hardens, and turns brown to form a woody, perforated seed-pod 5-10 cm across, with numerous pitted cavities each holding a single hard, ovoid seed. Lian Fang refers to this dried mature receptacle (seed-pod), harvested in autumn after seeds are removed for separate medicinal use.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 6-15g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Lian Fang (lotus receptacle) is a warm, astringent herb used in Chinese medicine to stop certain types of bleeding โ particularly postpartum hemorrhage and heavy uterine bleeding from Blood Heat or stasis. As an astringent substance derived from the lotus plant, it shares some properties with other lotus-derived herbs but focuses specifically on hemostatic action and the dispersal of residual Blood stasis after bleeding has occurred. It is gentle, food-grade, and appropriate for use in vulnerable populations including postpartum women.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.