In Egypt, 2 native species of lotus grew, white and blue. A 3rd type, the pink lotus, was introduced from Persia during the Late period. All 3 species were depicted in Egyptian art, with pink lotus featured more in work of the Greco-Roman period under the reign of the Ptolemies. The sacred blue lotus was the flower most commonly used in earlier times and the one depicted in the hieroglyph word for lotus (Seshen). White lotus blooms during the evening, giving it strong lunar associations. The flowers of the blue lotus seemed to close at night and sink beneath the water, in the morning they seemed to rise again, opening to the sun. The lotus was the only flowering plant in Egypt that bloomed continously throughout the year. Because of this, the blue lotus became a solar symbol and was corresponded to the process of creation and the continuance of life.
In Hermopolis, it was believed that a giant lotus blossom was the first expression of living form to emerge from the primordial waters. From this flower, the sun-god then came forth. Among works of art found in the tomb of Tutankhamun is a wooden carving of the head of the young king, represented as a boy of about 10, depicting him as the Reborn Child, or Sun God, rising from the petals of the sacred blue lotus, thus illustrating one of the most ancient Egyptian texts. In describing the creation of the cosmos it says, “He who emerged from the lotus upon the High Mound, who illumines with his eyes, the Two Lands.
Lotus was a favorite ingredient in aromatic baths and used along with coriander to expel fever. In the temples, scenes of lotus being held to the nose of royalty by gods and goddesses are common. It’s scent was considered restorative and protective. The Egyptians lived in a narrow strip of fertile land that bordered the Nile. Every plant that could be utilized in some way as food, eventually found it’s way to the table. Flower heads of lotus were soaked in wine to prepare a special intoxicating and fragrant drink for banquets and festivals. The root could be eaten raw or cooked; seeds were ground into flour for bread. Herberlists used lotus to increase libido. Seeds & pods were used as antidotes to love spells, and any part of the lotus carried upon the person ensured divine blessing and good fortune.
Homes were graced with arrangements of flowers, including lotus. The ancient Egyptians were considered masters of the art of perfume making and their products were known throughout the Mediterranean area. Perfume containers were sometimes carved in feline form, royal perfume jars have been found featuring lions. Ointments containing lotus, myrrh, cumin, and juniper in moringa oil were used to keep hair and scalp in good condition. Oil of Lilies was considered by many to be the Egyptian perfume. Lotus oil was said to restore a happy disposition when its fragrance was inhaled. It was used by Cleopatra VII to scent the sails and draperies of her royal barge. She was also reputed to bathe in a lotus bath daily. Lotus, cinnamon, and marjoram were among the most commonly used ‘top notes’ in perfume production. The Ptolemies built perfume laboratories at the temples of Edfu and Dendera where ritual oils, perfumes, and incense were processed. During their dynasty, Alexandria became the perfume manufacturing center of the world.
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