Lotus seeds have the effects of nourishing the kidneys, consolidating essence, nourishing the heart, and calming the mind. They are rich in nutrients and have high medicinal value. In the hot summer, lotus seeds are particularly popular because they can clear heat and relieve vexation. Many people like to cook lotus seed porridge. So, how long should lotus seeds be soaked before cooking?
How long to soak lotus seeds before cooking
If you are using dried lotus seeds to cook porridge, it is generally recommended to soak them for 2-3 hours in advance. Some people soak lotus seeds overnight, but this method is not recommended in the hot summer because lotus seeds are prone to spoilage under suitable temperature and sufficient moisture conditions.
How much lotus seeds to use for porridge
10-15 grams is appropriate.
It is recommended to use 10-15 grams of lotus seeds for porridge. Excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort. Lotus seeds can be taken with sour jujube kernels, pine nuts, fu shen, etc., which have the effect of nourishing the heart and calming the mind, suitable for those who experience palpitations and insomnia.
What are the benefits of eating lotus seeds
Tonifying the spleen and nourishing the kidneys
Lotus seeds have the effects of tonifying the spleen and nourishing the kidneys, and astringing and stopping diarrhea. When combined with ginseng, white atractylodes, poria cocos, and Chinese yam, they have the effects of invigorating the qi, strengthening the spleen, promoting dampness, and stopping diarrhea. They can be used to treat symptoms such as spleen and stomach qi and blood disorders, loose stools, poor appetite, and emaciation.
Consolidating essence and stopping seminal emission
Ancient people highly recognized the health value of lotus seeds. Medical books have records stating that lotus seeds can tonify the kidney, replenish essence, and nourish the heart and calm the mind. Lotus seeds contain various alkaloids that have sedative, blood pressure-lowering, and cardiotonic effects. Lotus seeds are good at replenishing deficiencies of the five viscera. When taken with euryale seeds, they have the effect of tonifying the spleen and consolidating the kidneys.
Clearing heat and relieving vexation
Lotus seeds have the effects of tonifying the kidney, replenishing essence, nourishing the heart, clearing heat, and detoxifying. The heart of the lotus seed has a stronger cooling effect. It is not necessary to remove the heart when consuming it if there is excessive internal heat or symptoms of being "hot". Lotus seeds have certain therapeutic effects on symptoms such as palpitations, restlessness, and insomnia. For individuals with severe internal heat, soaking lotus seed hearts in water for drinking is recommended.
Nourishing the heart and calming the mind
Lotus seeds contain various effective ingredients that have sedative, blood pressure-lowering, and cardiotonic effects. They not only tonify the kidney and consolidate essence, astringe the intestines, and stop discharge, but also have the effect of nourishing the heart and calming the mind. When lotus seeds are combined with sour jujube kernels, lilies, ginseng, and other medicinal herbs, the effect of nourishing the heart and calming the mind is enhanced. They are suitable for individuals who frequently experience insomnia, palpitations, and forgetfulness.
The best way to cook lotus seed porridge
Lotus seed and red date porridge
Ingredients:
15 grams of lotus seeds, 10 red dates, appropriate amount of rice, medlar, and sugar.
Instructions:
1. Remove the core of the lotus seeds and pit the red dates. Rinse the medlar with warm water and soak it for 1 hour.
2. Pour boiling water into the rice cooker and add rice, lotus seeds, red dates, and medlar.
3. Cook until the rice grains are soft, then add sugar to taste.
Lotus seed and lily porridge
Ingredients:
Lily, 150 grams of rice, 25 grams of dried lily, 25 grams of lotus seeds, 2 medlar seeds, 30 grams of rock sugar.
Instructions:
1. Crush the dried lily into powder with the back of a knife, and soak the lotus seeds in hot water until soft.
2. Soak the medlar seeds in hot water for a while, wash the rice thoroughly, and soak it in cold water for half an hour.
3. Put water in the pot, add rice and dried lily, and bring to a boil.
4. Add the lotus seeds and continue to simmer over medium heat until cooked. Finally, add rock sugar.
Precautions when eating lotus seeds
1. Do not consume in excessive amounts.
Lotus seeds contain amino acids, vitamins, proteins, and other nutrients. A moderate amount can tonify the kidneys, consolidate essence, stop discharge, and nourish the heart and calm the mind. Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
2. Do not consume overnight.
Soaking lotus seeds in water extracts various effective ingredients. Prolonged soaking may affect the efficacy, so it is recommended to consume it on the same day.
3. Not suitable for individuals with constipation.
Lotus seeds have the effects of astringing and astringing the intestines. Consumption by individuals with constipation may worsen the condition and hinder recovery.
