Editor's note: This article has been reviewed and updated for accuracy in 2026. When most people think of a lotus, they picture a beautiful flower with symmetrical leaves and striking colors floating on top of a lake of water. The deep symbolic meaning might also come to mind, as the flower has long been regarded as a sacred plant, particularly in eastern societies For example, in the Egyptian culture, the flower represents the universe, in the Hindu culture, the lotus flower is believed to have been the thrones of gods and goddesses, and Buddhists believe that Buddha himself appeared on a floating lotus and that lotus blossoms were left behind when he took his first steps on land. The flower is also associated with rebirth, spiritual enlightenment, and even magic among various cultures throughout the world. Beyond beauty and spiritual enlightenment, the lotus also offers a myriad of physical benefits. The plant’s flower, along with its seeds and leaves, and parts of the stem (rhizome) offer medicinal properties and have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. That’s because the lotus, particularly the plants rhizomes, are packed with naturally occurring and extremely powerful antioxidants. Some of the maladies that lotus has been used to treat include coughing, bleeding, fever, headaches, and digestive health problems. It also helps to promote more radiant skin, enhances cognitive functioning, boosts energy levels, supports digestion and weight loss, strengthens cardiovascular health, reduces