Landscaping & Gardening Information

Fleur De Lotus: Purity in a Sullied World


Rising from a muddy pond, a lotus flower blossoms. Such epitome of purity in a turbid environment has sparked off much inspiration in ancient oriental literature and Buddhist teachings, shaping a repertoire of odes to the graceful demeanour and refreshing fragrance of the lotus.

History

The lotus has played a vital role in the creation of the world, according to Egyptian mythology. Before the universe came into being, there was an infinite ocean of inert water which constituted the primeval being named Num. Out of Num emerged a lotus flower and when it blossomed, the self-created sun god, Atum, stepped out as a child. In fact, the lotus flower is featured extensively in the artwork of ancient Egypt.

Ecologically, the first stirrings of life in the world arose in water. Premised on the botanical understanding that the lotus is one of the world's first flowering plants, it is conceivable that lotus is a living fossil.

In Indian culture, the lotus is symbol of rebirth and a manifestation of truth, ideals, beauty, peace and enlightenment.

Since ancient times, lotus has always been a gastronomical delight in Chinese cuisine, with recipes ranging from rice wrapped in lotus leaf to lotus roots soup.

Ecology

The lotus is an Asian water lily that possesses an amazing ability to flourish in a variety of environments ranging from clear ponds to muddy marshes. It is also renowned for its hearty seed pods, which often plant themselves away from its source, spreading the beauty of the lotus blossoms far and wide.

Most lotus seeds remain quiescent during the cold or dry season and germinate only under favourable growth conditions.

The exquisite lotus flower is usually white or pink in colour with 15 or more oval petals that spread out in elegance and a peculiar, flat seedcase at its centre.

Health Notes

All parts of the lotus provide a range of health benefits, making the lotus a plant with comprehensive healing properties.

A good and mild tonic in its own right, the lotus seed is used primarily as an astringent to aid tonic formulations in the kidney and spleen. It prevents the loss of essences from our body and has a stabilising effect on the mind. Tests have shown that it can also slow down the aging process.

Lotus leaves are able to strengthen heart and liver functions. They also help to lower body temperature and restore proper functions of the body, by improving the ability of our tissues to metabolise nutrients and eliminate wastes.

Lotus roots are beneficial for the lung and stomach and help to curb bleeding. Lotus also acts as a booster for our flora and fauna.

Lotus essence is able to intensify the effects of other flower essences. As lotus is one of the flowers with the highest vibrations, it encourages a gentle unfolding of the highest potential within animals and provides solace to abused or neglected animals, enabling them to rise above their suppression.

With its delicate fragrance, quiet elegance and unsullied characteristics, Bel'Air's Fleur De Lotus essential oil can likewise engender an oasis of tranquillity for meditation, to elevate our spiritual health to a higher level.


MORE RESOURCES:

Xinhua

Tiny, mighty Tengtou
Xinhua
BEIJING, July 26 (Xinhuanet) -- Next to the exhibits of numerous metropolises in the Urban Best Practices Area (UBPA) is that of the tiny village of Tengtou ...
Tiny, mighty TengtouChina.org.cn

all 3 news articles »


Retiring county extension horticulturist's job likely to be filled, eventually
istockAnalyst.com (press release)
When he leaves work for the last time at the end of the month, Chip Miller will leave more than a vacant office behind -- he'll be taking with him the ...



Rebates offered in Solano County for water-saving landscaping, artificial turf
Vallejo Times-Herald
Solano County residents can take advantage of $1000 rebates for replacing thirsty lawns with water-saving landscaping, the Solano County Water Agency has ...

and more »


Longtime home decor writer Jo Werne dies of heart attack
MiamiHerald.com
Former landscaping/gardening writer Georgia Tasker said that Werne loved to discuss her pets. ``She would come in with stories all the time about her cats, ...

and more »


PERKS OF THE PARK
CisionWire (press release)
As Love Parks Week kicks off today (24 July), encouraging people all across the country to appreciate the beauty of our parks, a new report from the UK body ...

and more »


Bay-Friendly landscapes grow businesses
Sustainable Industries
This means new business for sustainable landscape architects and growth for programs such as Bay-Friendly Landscaping and ...



Missouri Ruralist

Something for Everyone at State Fair
Missouri Ruralist
Additional topics in the showcase will include painting, photography and pottery demonstrations as well as tips from experts in landscaping, gardening and ...

and more »


Daily Dunklin Democrat

State Fair to offer Rural Lifestyle Showcase
Daily Dunklin Democrat
Other exhibits in the showcase will feature painting, photography, and pottery demonstrations, as well as tips from experts in landscaping, gardening, ...



DIY Matters launch Revolutionary Weed Control Product Range
I-Newswire.com (press release)
The website will also act as a portal for any landscaping, gardening or DIY advice and tips, helping to educate consumers about the product and its purpose. ...

and more »


Larry McLean
Minot Daily News
In retirement, he enjoyed landscaping, gardening and trips to Mexico. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Doris McLean; brother, ...


Google News

home | site map
© 2006