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Lotus in History
3100-2950 BC
The flower most often identified as the Lotus in Egypt was actually a variety of Water Lily native to the Egyptian Nile River. Egyptian Lotuses grow on tall stems above the water surface and have petals ending in a point, while the aquatic flower that is considered the true Lotus had rounded tipped flower petals. read more »
3100-2950 BC
This flower called the True Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) originated in Ancient Persia and was later popularized as the sacred Lotus used in Hindu and Buddhist rituals. Medicinally, the Egyptian Lotus found uses both as a culinary delight and starchy food staple as well as being used internally as a treatment for gastrointestinal disorders and jaundice. read more »
3100-2950 BC
The Persian Lotus was introduced in Egypt much later in its history and was also used in medicine for its narcotic properties, most commonly applied as an anesthetic. Soaking the Persian Lotus flower petals or leaves in wine and then ingesting the extract also lent itself well as an aid in meditation and relaxation. read more »
1100 C.E.
Odysseus was driven to North Africa and the land of the Lotus Eaters, who consumed the fruit of the lotus and lived in a continual state of dreamy forgetfulness and happy irresponsibility. Today a lotus eater is anyone who succumbs to indolent pleasure. The lotus, a small tree of the Mediterranean, produces the fruit consumed by the Lotus Eaters; it is also an aquatic plant indigenous to southern Asia. read more »
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- The Statue of Zeus in Olympia