Understanding the Differences
Blue Lily (Nymphaea Caerulea) and Blue Lotus (Nelumbo Nucifera) are two beautiful and aromatic plants that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and spiritual practices. While they are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two plants in terms of their appearance, culture, chemical composition, and therapeutic benefits.
Although the Blue Lily is sometimes called the 'blue lotus,' it's important to clarify that lotus belong to the genus Nelumbo, while the flower known to ancient Egyptians is Nymphaea Caerulea which a true blue waterlily.
APPEARANCE:
- Blue Lily is a water lily that is native to Egypt and other parts of Africa. It has thin long petals that bloom during the day and close at night, and has stems that grow above and out the surface of the water.
- Blue Lotus is a water lotus that is native to Asia. It has large petals and rounder leaves that float on the surface of the water.
SYMBOLISM
- Blue Lily is significant in Egyptian mythology as a symbol of the sun and a sign of rebirth, creation and divine connection. The god of the Blue Lily is Nefertem, a god linked to healing. It was he who brought a water lily to the sun god Ra, to help ease the suffering of his aging body.
- Blue Lotus is considered sacred in Hindu and Buddhist faith. Green Tara, Lord Buddha, Lakshmi and many more are shown to sit on the lotus as a symbol of enlightenment, purity, beauty and fertility. It serves as a powerful emblem of faith and belief in many cultures.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION:
Blue Lily and Blue Lotus contain different chemical compounds that give them their unique therapeutic properties.
- Blue Lily contains a range of alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, including aporphine, nuciferine, and kaempferol. These compounds have been shown to have a range of effects on the body, including analgesic, sedative, and anxiolytic properties.
- Blue Lotus contains a range of alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, including nuciferine, aporphine, and quercetin. These compounds have been shown to have a range of effects on the body, including sedative, anxiolytic, and antispasmodic properties.
BENEFITS:
Both Blue Lily and Blue Lotus have a range of therapeutic benefits, but they differ somewhat in their effects on the body.
- Blue Lily is known for its spiritual and psychoactive properties, and is often used to enhance meditation, aid lucid dreaming, promotes relaxation and euphoria, and stimulates the senses. It is also used to relieve pain and cramps, and has been shown to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Blue Lotus is known for its calming and relaxing properties, and is often used to reduce stress and anxiety, promote a more restful sleep. It is also used to alleviate pain and inflammation, and has been shown to have antispasmodic and analgesic properties.
In conclusion, while Blue Lily and Blue Lotus are often used interchangeably, they have some key differences in terms of their appearance, culture, chemical composition, and therapeutic benefits. Blue Lily is known for its psychoactive and spiritual properties, while Blue Lotus is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Both plants have a long history of use in traditional medicine and spiritual practices, and can offer a range of benefits to those who use them.