Lotus leaf rice is not a stranger to us dim sum lovers (pretty sure you can tell that I'm a foodie by now 😋). Lotus Leaf is a plant of the lotus family and is referred to as "He Ye" in Chinese cultures. The lotus leaf is used in many cultures to stop bleeding, and is a common treatment for blood in the urine or for heavy menstrual bleeding.

In TCM, lotus leaf is classified as a neutral herb. It tastes slightly bitter, targets the heart, liver, and spleen. It is used to clear excess dampness associated with water retention and weight gain, and to clear heat toxicity while strengthening "Spleen Yang." Besides, it is mostly used for clearing heat and removing toxicity but can also aid in promoting diuresis, cooling the blood and healing cuts and scrapes. It can be used to treat diarrhoea and skin disorders.

Traditionally, it is used as a treatment for the digestive and circulatory systems. Because of its bitter qualities, it causes the stomach to secrete more stomach acid, which can aid in food digestion. Recent research also explains how this natural element is effective in weight loss for humans.

According to a study conducted by Korean nutrition and metabolism scientists Ji-Yung Park and Huan Du, the study confirmed that lotus leaf slowed the absorption of fat and carbohydrates, increased energy expenditure and rapidly increased lipid metabolism. The study also stated that lotus leaf significantly reduced the increase of weight in those tested.

In The Overeater 😋, we have combined lotus leaves together with hawthorn berries and tangerine peels, which can further boost its effectiveness in digestion-aids, slowing down fat absorption, and supporting healthy weight management.