Lotus Stamen

Chinese
莲须
Pinyin
Lian Xu
Latin
Stamen Nelumbinis
Botanical illustration of Lotus Stamen, Nelumbo nucifera, showing fresh and dried stamens, anther detail, pollen-bearing filaments, and diagnostic plant details.
Botanical plate by Kodi .

Known in TCM as Lian Xu (莲须), this sweet and astringent, neutral herb enters the Heart and Kidney. Traditionally, it tonifies the Kidney and secures Essence; treats spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, and frequent urination from Kidney instability, most often applied for leukorrhea, frequent urination, and hematuria. Modern research has identified Flavonoids among its active constituents.

Part used: Stamen

Also Known As

Nelumbo nucifera stamen Nelumbinis

Latin: Stamen Nelumbinis | Pinyin: Lian Xu | Chinese: 莲须

TCM Properties

Taste
sweet, astringent
Temperature
neutral
Channels
Heart, Kidney

Traditional Use

Primary Actions

  • Tonifies the Kidney and secures Essence; treats spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, and frequent urination from Kidney instability
  • Clears the Heart and stabilizes the Spirit; used for excessive dreaming and restlessness
  • Stops bleeding for epistaxis, hematemesis, and profuse uterine bleeding

Secondary Actions

  • Regarded as a stronger astringent than Lotus Seed, though without the seed's tonifying strength

Classical References

  • Documented alongside Lian Zi and Lian Zi Xin in later materia medica as part of the lotus-derived Essence-securing herb group

Modern Research

Active Compounds

  • Flavonoids
  • Alkaloids (shared with other Nelumbo nucifera plant parts)
  • Tannins

Studied Effects

  • Limited part-specific pharmacological study; phytochemical profile overlaps with other Nelumbo nucifera tissues studied for antioxidant activity

PubMed References

Safety & Interactions

Cautions

  • Urinary retention or urinary stone with Excess pattern, due to its astringent nature

Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lotus Stamen used for?

Lotus Stamen is traditionally used to Tonifies the Kidney and secures Essence; treats spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, and frequent urination from Kidney instability, Clears the Heart and stabilizes the Spirit; used for excessive dreaming and restlessness, Stops bleeding for epistaxis, hematemesis, and profuse uterine bleeding. Research has investigated its effects on: Limited part-specific pharmacological study; phytochemical profile overlaps with other Nelumbo nucifera tissues studied for antioxidant activity.

What are other names for Lotus Stamen?

Lotus Stamen is also known as Nelumbo nucifera stamen, Nelumbinis. In TCM: 莲须 (Lian Xu); Stamen Nelumbinis.

Is Lotus Stamen safe during pregnancy?

Lotus Stamen is generally considered safe during pregnancy in normal amounts. Therapeutic or concentrated doses should be discussed with a qualified practitioner before use.