บัวหลวง
In Thailand, there are two variations of royal lily, namely
white and pink. They both have the botanical features shared by other water
plants, marked with giant round leaves of dark green. Long stalks that rise
above the surface of the water support the leaves, while the flower comprises
different layers of petals.
The cone-shaped buds contain seeds that grow into fruits or
lily cones.
In the meantime, the roots grow deep into the soft soil. In
general, royal lilies propagate using seeds; only a few species propagate using
stalks.
Almost all parts of the royal lily are useful. Lily buds are
used as religious offerings; leaves hold food; petals are used to roll tobacco
and as raw material for other handicrafts; shoots and stalks are edible whether
boiled, stir-fried or curried; seeds are used both in savories and desserts and
the roots boiled with sugar are refreshing.
Royal lilies also
boast medicinal properties. Stamens from lily buds reinvigorate the body, help
urinary discharge and heal wounds.
The roots are sweet and scented and can be used to treat
diarrhea. Bulbs and seeds are effective for quenching thirst and cooling the
body, aiding mucus discharge and healing fresh wounds. And the bitter kernel of
lily seeds helps enlarge arteries and nourish heart muscles. A water plant such
as the royal lily is thus beauty with value.
