Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Astringent (Kashaya), Sweet (Madhura), Bitter (Tikta)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Unctuous (Snigdha)
- Potency (Virya)
- Cold (Sheeta)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Sweet (Madhura)
- Key Constituents
- Nympharin, Nymphalin, Tannins, Starch
- Also Known As
- English: White Water Lily
Sanskrit: कुमुद, कैरव, कुमुदिनी, शीतलोपल
Hindi: कोका, कुमुदिनी
What is Night Lotus / Night Blooming Lotus (Kumuda / कुमुद)?
Kumuda (White Water Lily, Nymphaea alba) is described as a night-blooming water flower. It opens at night and closes during the day. The flower, root, and stem are used medicinally. The root (rhizome) is very starchy and nutritious. It is described as cooling, heart-tonic and useful as a sedative. The flowers are white. It is found in ponds and lakes across India. Different species are mentioned: (1) Nymphaea rubra Roxb. with red flowers, (2) N. pubescens Willd. which is similar to N. alba but with some distinct features, (3) N. stellata Willd. with blue flowers. All species are described with 2-4 feet diameter leaves floating on water. The rhizome yields starch. Verse: 9.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Hridya (cardiotonic)
- Varnya (complexion enhancer)
- Sedative (calming)
- Raktapittahara (alleviates bleeding)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 4
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.