The most beautiful things are found in the most unlikely places and a beautiful water lily blooming in a murky pondis an evidence. This aquatic plant with its ornamental flower has many medicinal virtues. The tannins, oils and alkaloids of white water lily acts an mild sedative and anti inflammatory. The plant tissues also act as antibiotic and astringent due to the tannic and gallic acids.
The plant is of medicinal value in chinese medicines, homeopathy and ayurvedic remedies. The most often used parts of the water lily are the rhizome, root and flowers. The rhizome acts as an astringent and antiseptic. Gastro-intestinal, genital and bronchial dysfunctions are treated through formulas made from water lily rhizomes. Diarrhoea is cured through decoction of the rhizome which serves as an astringent. Kidney pain, diseases affecting urinary tract and piles are relieved through such medicine too. The demulcents soothe sore throats and throat pains. Skin diseases, boils and abscesses are treated with waterlily extracts.
The plant is also an anaphrodisiac and inhibits sexual vigour. The extract is useful for maintaining the genital health. Water lily flowers have a general soothing effect on the nervous system and hence are used in relaxation therapies in Ayurveda. The flower has the beautifying factor and extracts are used in skin and hair care products for glowing skin and shiny locks.The stem and rhizome are used in cuisines and prove to be highly nutritious. The waterlily seeds serve as a healthy beverage instead of coffee.
