Lian Fang (Lotus Receptacle)

Lian Fang Lotus Flower Receptacle Other Names:  Lian Fang, Lotus Flower Receptacle, Lotus Seed Pod, Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn; Receptaculum Nelumbinis  莲房 Properties: Astringent, Bitter, Warm Channels Entered: Liver, Kidney, Spleen Functions: Stops Bleeding, Regulates Menstruation, Dispels Summerheat Other Information: The lotus plant grows in many countries of the world and is native to China, especially in the South. It is a very adaptable plant and the seeds can remain dormant for very long. It is commonly known as a Water Lily, and the leaves of the lotus plant float on the water while the flowers grow from long stems. The seeds of this plant rest in the seed pod before falling to the bottom of the pond or river. The seed pod is what is traditionally known in Chinese medicine as Lian Fang.  Lian Fang can be used to reduce and stop various bleeding such as hematuria, uterine bleeding, rectal prolapse, and bleeding from hemorrhoids. In children, fresh Lian Fang shows improvement in s