Lotus Seed Stamen

Lotus Seed Stamen (Lian Xu): A Neutral, Sweet-Astringent Herb for Calming the Spirit, Securing Essence, and Stopping Bleeding

Introduction

Lotus Seed Stamen, known as Lian Xu (莲须) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is traditionally used to calm the Spirit, secure essence, and stop bleeding. Neutral in temperature and sweet-astringent in nature, it is valued for supporting the Heart, Kidney, and Blood systems, particularly in conditions involving restlessness or excessive loss.

What Is Lotus Seed Stamen (Lian Xu)?

Lotus Seed Stamen is the dried stamen of Nelumbo nucifera, collected from the lotus flower. In TCM, it is primarily used for its calming and astringent properties. Its sweet nature nourishes and harmonizes, while its astringency helps restrain leakage and bleeding.

Health Benefits of Lotus Seed Stamen (Lian Xu)

Calms the Spirit
Traditionally used for anxiety, palpitations, irritability, or insomnia related to Heart or Kidney disharmony.

Stops Bleeding
Used for uterine bleeding, excessive menstruation, or other bleeding patterns where astringency is needed.

Secures Essence and Fluids
Helps prevent excessive loss of essence, often used in patterns involving leakage or weakness.

Supports Heart–Kidney Harmony
Commonly used to stabilize emotional agitation and support overall balance between the Heart and Kidneys.

How to Use Lotus Seed Stamen (Lian Xu)

As a Herbal Decoction
Typically decocted with calming or astringent herbs such as Lotus Seed (Lian Zi) or Euryale Seed (Qian Shi), depending on the pattern.

In Traditional Formulas
Used in classical or modern formulas aimed at calming the Spirit, stopping bleeding, or securing essence.

Powdered Form
Sometimes ground into a powder and taken in small amounts for targeted calming or astringent support.

Where to Buy Lotus Seed Stamen (Lian Xu)

You can find Lotus Seed Stamen at:

• Traditional Chinese medicine shops
• Asian herbal markets
• Licensed online TCM suppliers

Look for:

• Fine, thread-like yellow to golden-brown stamens
• Dry, lightweight texture
• Clean appearance without mold or strong odor
• Clear labeling indicating botanical source

Are There Any Side Effects?

Lotus Seed Stamen is generally considered safe when used appropriately. Due to its astringent nature, excessive use may aggravate Qi stagnation or be unsuitable in cases of constipation or unresolved Heat.

Conclusion

Lotus Seed Stamen (Lian Xu) is a traditional TCM herb valued for calming the Spirit, stopping bleeding, securing essence, and supporting Heart–Kidney balance.

FAQs

Is Lotus Seed Stamen toxic?
No, Lotus Seed Stamen is not considered toxic when properly prepared and used at appropriate doses.

Can Lotus Seed Stamen be used daily?
It is typically used short-term or as needed for specific conditions rather than continuously on a daily basis.

Is Lotus Seed Stamen warming or cooling?
It is neutral, making it suitable for a wide range of patterns without being overly warming or cooling.