Nymphaea candida

Physical Characteristics

Nymphaea candida is a PERENNIAL. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It can grow in water.

Distribution

Europe, southwest Asia, Himalayas, China and Siberia.

Habitats

Pond;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seed Edible Uses: Coffee The following reports refer to the related N. alba and probably also apply to this species[K]. Root - cooked. Eaten when several years old[2, 5, 145]. It contains up to 40% starch, 6% protein[7, 114]. The roasted seed is a coffee substitute[7]. Seed - cooked. It contains about 47% starch[114].

Medicinal Uses

Anaphrodisiac Anodyne Antiscrophulatic Astringent Cardiotonic Demulcent Dysentery Sedative The following reports refer to the related N. alba and probably also apply to this species[K]. The rhizome is anodyne, antiscrofulatic, astringent, cardiotonic, demulcent and sedative[4, 7, 9, 240]. A decoction of the root is used in the treatment of dysentery or diarrhoea caused by irritable bowel syndrome. It has also been used to treat bronchial catarrh and kidney pain and can be taken as a gargle for sore throats[254]. Externally it can be used to make a douche to treat vaginal soreness or discharges. In combination with slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) or flax (Linum usitatissimum) it is used as a poultice to treat boils and abscesses[254]. The rhizome is harvested in the autumn and can be dried for later use[254]. The flowers are anaphrodisiac and sedative[254]. They have a generally calming and sedative effect upon the nervous system, reputedly reducing the sex drive and making them useful in the treatment of insomnia, anxiety and similar disorders[254]. A complete cure of uterine cancer by a decoction and uterine injection has been recorded[4]. According to one report the plant is not used in modern herbal practice, though it has been quoted as a remedy for dysentery[9].

Known Hazards

None known