The fungus has been established on the roots of Pinus radiata seedlings under aseptic conditions, but the stability of the association needs to be further tested under glasshouse and field conditions. Mature pine trees have been inoculated with Matsutake, and survival of the fungus in the field remains to be assessed using recently developed molecular genetic techniques. The young leaves and flower stalks, seeds and rhizomes are all edible. Oriental medicine also has a marvellous range of uses for lotus and no part of the plant is neglected in Oriental medicine. However, the largest market exists for rhizomes which are a vegetable with enormous potential for large-scale production in Australian horticulture to supply domestic and overseas markets.
Lotus rhizomes in the Japanese market.
The leaves are known for various properties including comparable refrigerant, astringent and diuretic actions. This led to various diverse applications such as using the leaves for diarrhoea, high fever, haemorrhoids, strangury and leprosy. The seeds would stop vomiting or soothe irritation of the digestive tract. Ripe lotus seeds also provide a spleen tonic and are used for their astringent action in the treatment of chronic diarrhoea, seminal emission and leucorrhoea, as well as having a sedative action, making them useful for insomnia and heart palpitations. The stamens assist consolidation of kidney function and are particularly useful in the treatment of male sexual disorders and female leucorrhea.