Nymphaea ampla
Nymphaea ampla
Nymphaea ampla, commonly known as water lily, originates from traditional medicine practices in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica where it was utilized for its psychoactive effects in rituals. While there are no recorded traditional uses outside this context, the plant contains sulfated polysaccharides, which have been detected but not yet linked to specific health benefits or adverse effects through scientific studies. Research suggests that Nymphaea ampla, alongside mushrooms, played a significant role as a ritual psychogen in Mesoamerican cultures, though further investigation is needed to confirm these findings. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been reported for this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The abundance of Nymphaea ampla was found to best explain variation in shell crushing resistance among sites.
- The study suggests that Nymphaea ampla, along with mushrooms, may have been an important ritual psychogen in Mesoamerica.
- Sulfated polysaccharides were detected in Nymphaea ampla, though the study did not assess health effects.
- Nymphaea ampla, or water lily, was used for its psychoactive effects in pre-Columbian Mesoamerican rituals.
Frequently asked questions
What is Nymphaea ampla?
Nymphaea ampla (Nymphaea ampla) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Nymphaea ampla?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Nymphaea ampla; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The abundance of Nymphaea ampla was found to best explain variation in shell crushing resistance among sites.
How strong is the evidence for Nymphaea ampla?
The strongest finding for Nymphaea ampla carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Nymphaea ampla safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Nymphaea ampla in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Nymphaea ampla interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Nymphaea ampla in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Nymphaea ampla a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Hallucinogenic drugs in pre-Columbian Mesoamerican cultures. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Freshwater plants synthesize sulfated polysaccharides: heterogalactans from Water Hyacinth (Eicchornia crassipes). literature abstract metadata
- T2 The effect of aquatic plant abundance on shell crushing resistance in a freshwater snail. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The mushroom and the water lily: literary and pictorial evidence for Nymphaea as a ritual psychotogen in Mesoamerica. literature abstract metadata