White Water Lily (Nymphaea alba)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Nymphaeaceae
• Common Names: White Water Lily, European White Water Lily
• Parts Used: Roots, rhizomes, flowers, leaves

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Description

Nymphaea alba, commonly known as white water lily, is a floating aquatic plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. Traditionally valued for its calming, astringent, and demulcent properties, white water lily has been used to support the nervous system, soothe inflammation, and promote skin healing.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European herbal medicine for its cooling and calming effects on the body and mind.
• Traditionally employed to treat digestive inflammation and diarrhea.
• Applied as a poultice for wounds, burns, and ulcers.
• Historically used to support female reproductive health and ease menstrual discomfort.

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Constituents

• Alkaloids (nupharine, nupharidine)
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Mucilage
• Glycosides

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Actions

• Astringent
• Demulcent
• Nervine
• Anti-inflammatory
• Mild sedative
• Emollient

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Medicinal Uses

1. Nervous System Support:
White water lily is known for its mild sedative properties, helping to reduce anxiety, nervous tension, and restlessness.

2. Digestive and Mucosal Support:
Traditionally used to soothe inflamed mucous membranes, treating gastritis, ulcers, and diarrhea.

3. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied externally as a poultice or wash to promote wound healing and treat burns, rashes, and skin ulcers.

4. Reproductive Health:
Used to support menstrual regularity and as a mild uterine tonic.

5. Urinary Tract Support:
Historically used to ease irritation in the urinary tract and bladder infections.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried flowers or rhizome per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Decoction (Stronger Internal Use):

• Simmer 5-10 grams of dried rhizome in water for 20 minutes. Drink as needed.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves or rhizome applied to wounds and irritated skin.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Excessive Use: High doses may cause drowsiness or digestive discomfort.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible; discontinue use if irritation occurs.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports digestion, skin health, and nervous system balance.
• Traditional European Medicine: Used as a calming and astringent remedy.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Vata, but excessive use may increase Kapha.

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Combinations

• For Nervous System Support: Combine with chamomile and valerian.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with marshmallow root and licorice.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Rhizomes are collected in late summer; flowers and leaves can be gathered as needed.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Nymphaea alba’s astringent, demulcent, and sedative properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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White Water Lily remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for nervous system support, digestion, and wound healing.