Brahma Kamal is a beautiful lotus-like flower treated as a sacred plant due to its association with Brahma, the God of Creation. According to Hindu mythology, Brahma sits on a pink lotus flower and the Brahma Kamal resembles that lotus.
Different names of Brahma Kamal
Since it blossoms only at night, it is also called Night blooming Cereus, Queen of the night, Lady of the night. It blossoms once a year between July and September and its blossoming time is 7 pm onwards. It takes two hours to become fully young and remains young throughout the night. It grows up to 8 inches in diameter.
It is also called Orchid Cactus due to its orchid-like resemblance and cactus like habits.
Where is Brahma Kamal found?
It is found in Himalayas but often confused with the plant people grow in their window sills. It is the state flower of Uttarakhand where it is revered as a sacred plant and considered auspicious. Folklore about Brahma Kamal says that anyone who sees this flower blossoming is blessed with good luck and prosperity.
Brahma Kamal For Religious Purposes
Herbal benefits of Brahma Kamal
It is a medicinal plant and the entire plant is used in medicine and it is more popular in Tibetan medicines. It has a bitter taste and it is used for treating urogenital disorders.
How to grow Brahma Kamal?
Brahma Kamal grows in hilly areas where it gets plenty of water naturally. But it requires little water due to its cactus like properties. It should be watered once in two or three days as flooding it water will retard its growth.
It looks gorgeous but smells awful and for this reason it is kept in its natural condition. But this flower is offered to gods and goddesses in hilly temples of Uttarakhand with much devotion.