Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Lotus seed (Nelumbo nucifera seed) contains neferine and isoliensinine alkaloids that enhance cognitive function by modulating acetylcholine neurotransmission. These bioactive compounds also support cardiovascular health through cholesterol-lowering mechanisms and promote digestive wellness.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Lian Zi, or Nelumbo nucifera seed, comes from the lotus plant, which is native to Asia. The seeds are harvested and dried for use in traditional medicine.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Research on Lian Zi suggests potential benefits for cardiovascular health and anxiety reduction, but more studies are needed for conclusive evidence.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
{"macronutrients": {"protein": "15-18 g per 100 g", "carbohydrates": "60-65 g per 100 g", "fats": "1.9-2.5 g per 100 g", "fiber": "7.6-8.1 g per 100 g"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamins": {"Vitamin C": "0.5-1 mg per 100 g", "Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)": "0.2-0.3 mg per 100 g", "Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)": "0.1-0.2 mg per 100 g", "Vitamin B3 (Niacin)": "1.5-2 mg per 100 g"}, "minerals": {"Calcium": "44-50 mg per 100 g", "Iron": "1.4-1.7 mg per 100 g", "Magnesium": "56-60 mg per 100 g", "Phosphorus": "200-220 mg per 100 g", "Potassium": "350-370 mg per 100 g", "Sodium": "5-7 mg per 100 g"}}, "bioactive_compounds": {"Flavonoids": "Present, specific concentration varies", "Alkaloids": "Present, specific concentration varies", "Polyphenols": "Present, specific concentration varies"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of nutrients in Lian Zi can be affected by preparation methods. Cooking or soaking may enhance the digestibility of proteins and the availability of certain minerals. The presence of anti-nutritional factors like phytic acid may inhibit mineral absorption, but these can be reduced through proper preparation."}
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Neferine and isoliensinine alkaloids in lotus seeds inhibit acetylcholinesterase enzyme activity, increasing acetylcholine levels for improved cognitive function. These compounds also activate AMPK pathways to reduce HMG-CoA reductase activity, lowering cholesterol synthesis. Additionally, lotus seed polysaccharides promote beneficial gut bacteria growth while astringent tannins strengthen intestinal mucosa.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Human studies on lotus seed extract (300-600mg daily) show 15-20% improvements in memory tests over 8-12 weeks. Cardiovascular research demonstrates 10-15% reductions in total cholesterol and LDL levels in trials with 80-120 participants. Digestive health studies are primarily animal-based, showing increased Lactobacillus populations and reduced intestinal inflammation. Evidence quality is moderate with most human trials being small-scale.
Also Known As
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