The Beauty and Benefits of Water Lily Tubers

Table of Contents

What is a Water Lily Tuber?

The water lily is an aquatic plant that can be found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers all around the world. It has large floating leaves and beautiful flowers that come in various colors such as pink, white, and yellow. But did you know that the water lily also has an edible part? The water lily tuber, also known as rhizome, is a starchy root that grows beneath the waterâ€™s surface. In this article, we will discuss the benefits and beauty of water lily tubers.

History and Cultural Significance of Water Lily Tubers

Water lily tubers have been consumed for thousands of years by different cultures across Asia, Africa, and America. The ancient Egyptians used it as a remedy for diarrhea, while the Chinese believed it could cure fever and inflammation. In India, it was referred to as lotus root and was used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. In Hindu mythology, the goddess Lakshmi is often depicted sitting on a pink lotus flower, symbolizing purity and divinity. Today, water lily tubers are still utilized in various dishes and herbal remedies.

Culinary Uses of Water Lily Tubers

Water lily tubers are commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia. In Vietnam, it is called "hoai" and is used to make pickles or stir-fry with meat and vegetables. In Thailand, it is known as "buap liy" and is used in curries or salads. Cambodians use it to make a popular dessert called num banh chok, which is a coconut milk-based noodle dish.

Recipe: Cambodian Num Banh Chok

To make this delicious and refreshing dessert, you will need:

1 cup of rice noodles
2 cups of coconut milk
1 cup of water lily tubers, sliced thinly
1 tablespoon of sugar
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 cup of bean sprouts
1/4 cup of fresh herbs (mint, basil, or cilantro)

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a pot, heat the coconut milk, sugar, and salt over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
3. Add the sliced water lily tubers and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender.
4. Divide the cooked noodles into four bowls and top with the coconut milk mixture.
5. Garnish with bean sprouts and fresh herbs. Serve cold.

Medicinal Properties of Water Lily Tubers

Water lily tubers contain various nutrients such as carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins B and C, potassium, and manganese. They also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help prevent chronic diseases. In traditional medicine, it is believed to be beneficial in treating diarrhea, fever, and inflammation.

Studies on Water Lily Tubers

Studies have shown that water lily tubers have potential antidiabetic effects. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that water lily tubers extract could reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. Another study conducted on mice showed that water lily tubers extract could improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. These findings suggest that water lily tubers could be a natural remedy for diabetes.

Growing and Harvesting Water Lily Tubers

Water lilies are relatively easy to grow, but growing the tubers requires a bit more effort. To grow water lily tubers, you need to first plant the water lily in a pond or container filled with water. After a year or two, the plant will producing tubers. To harvest the tubers, you need to carefully dig them out of the soil without damaging the plant. It is best to harvest the tubers in the fall when the plant is dormant.

How to Store Water Lily Tubers

Fresh water lily tubers can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a week. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze them. To do this, wash the tubers and peel off the outer layer. Cut them into small pieces and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and let them cool before placing them in a freezer bag. Frozen water lily tubers can last up to six months.

The Beauty of Water Lily Tubers

Aside from its culinary and medicinal uses, water lily tubers also have aesthetic value. The tubers are often used in aquariums and ponds as a decorative element. They have a unique shape and texture that adds dimension to any water feature.

Varieties of Water Lilies

There are over 70 species of water lilies, each with different colors and sizes. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Nymphaea odorata (white water lily)
Nymphaea caerulea (blue lotus)
Nymphaea nouchali (pink water lily)
Nymphaea tetragona (pygmy water lily)

Interesting Fact: Blue Lotus in Ancient Egypt

The blue lotus flower, also known as Nymphaea caerulea, was highly valued by the ancient Egyptians. It was believed to have psychoactive effects and was often used in religious ceremonies. The petals were steeped in wine or tea to produce a calming effect.

Caring for Water Lilies

Water lilies require specific care to thrive. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day and well-aerated water. You can add an air pump or fountain to improve water circulation. Additionally, you should fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a specialized water lily fertilizer.

In water lily tubers are not only beautiful but also nutritious and beneficial for our health. They have been used in traditional medicine for centuries and have potential antidiabetic effects. Growing and harvesting water lily tubers require some effort, but it can be a rewarding experience. Whether you want to try cooking with them or simply enjoy their beauty in your pond or aquarium, water lily tubers are definitely worth exploring.