Nelumbo nucifera, simply called lotus, is an aquatic perennial plant in the family Nelumbonaceae. This plant is a symbol of purity and resurrection as the plant rises from the muddy water to blossom pure flowers. Its root, seed, leaf, and flower are all consumed as food or tea in East Asia. Especially popular part is the lotus root which is eaten as a steamed or fried vegetable. The root is also freeze-dried or hot-air dried into chips and a tea made from the root is still widely drunk. It is rich in flavonoids, fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Traditionally, lotus root was thought to treat chronic health conditions if it was taken internally for long periods of time. Lotus leaf can be also used to treat skin diseases including redness, swelling, and also to alleviate arthritic pain. There have been some studies that have shown anti-diabetes, anti-hypertension, and anti-hyperlipidemia actions.

Many scientific studies demonstrated numerous biological activities of lotus root including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-obesity activities.