How to use Blue Lotus – Best practices and examples

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Methods of use

The Blue Lotus plant, known by the scientific name Nymphaea caerulea, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and spiritual practices. Common methods of consumption include:

  • Smoking the dried flowers or leaves
  • Brewing the flowers into a tea
  • Soaking the flowers in wine or other alcoholic beverages
  • Consuming capsules or extracts made from the plant

Each method may produce slightly different effects and benefits.

blue lotus flower, flower lotus, nature

The most common methods of using Blue Lotus are smoking the dried flowers, brewing them into a tea, or soaking them in wine. Let’s take a closer look at each method:

Smoking Blue Lotus

Smoking is one of the quickest ways to experience the effects of Blue Lotus. The dried flower petals can be smoked on their own or mixed with other smokable herbs. Here’s a simple guide:

  1. Grind up 1/2 to 1 gram of dried Blue Lotus flowers into a powder using a herb grinder or mortar and pestle. Dosage can be adjusted based on desired strength of effects.
  2. The ground flowers can be smoked in a pipe, water pipe, or vaporizer. They can also be rolled into a cigarette or joint, either on their own or mixed with cannabis or tobacco.
  3. Inhale the smoke slowly and deeply, holding it in the lungs for a few seconds before exhaling. Effects should be noticeable within minutes.

Note: Always use caution and start with a low dose when smoking any herb for the first time. Stop use if you experience adverse effects.

Blue Lotus Tea

Brewing a tea is a traditional method of consuming Blue Lotus that produces mild relaxing effects. Here’s how to prepare it:

  1. Place 5-10 grams of dried Blue Lotus flowers in a tea strainer, tea ball, or directly in a mug. Dosage can vary based on desired potency.1
  2. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the herb and let it steep, covered, for 10-20 minutes. A longer steep will produce a stronger tea.
  3. Strain out the plant material and discard. The remaining liquid is your Blue Lotus tea, ready to drink. Honey or lemon may be added if desired.

The tea is reported to have a mildly sweet and floral flavor. Effects tend to be calming and euphoric, lasting 1-2 hours.2 For a stronger brew, simmer the flowers in water for 20-30 minutes instead of steeping.

Blue Lotus Tincture

A Blue Lotus tincture is a concentrated liquid extract that preserves the active compounds. You can take it directly under the tongue or add to drinks. To make a tincture:

  1. Fill a glass jar 1/3 to 1/2 full with dried Blue Lotus flowers. For a stronger tincture, use more herb.
  2. Pour 80-100 proof alcohol over the flowers until they are completely submerged and the jar is full. Vodka or Everclear work well.
  3. Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks, shaking occasionally. For maximum potency, let steep for up to 3 months.
  4. Strain out and discard the plant material. Store the remaining liquid tincture in a dark bottle away from light and heat.

A standard dose is 2-4 mL up to three times per day.3 Hold under the tongue for 30 seconds before swallowing for best absorption.

Soaking in Wine

The Ancient Egyptians were known to soak Blue Lotus flowers in wine for festivities and rituals.4 To prepare:

  • Simply add a handful of dried blossoms to a bottle of wine and let infuse in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least a few hours.
  • Strain out the flowers before drinking the wine as desired. The infused wine is said to produce mild euphoria and heightened sensory experiences.

In conclusion, Blue Lotus can be enjoyed in a variety of ways to experience its subtle mental and physical effects. As with any substance, start with a low dose, see how your body responds, and don’t take it before driving or operating machinery. Consult your doctor first if you have any medical conditions or take medications. With mindful and informed use, Blue Lotus can be an enjoyable and therapeutic ally.