Lotus plant (Nelumbo nucifera) originated in India and was brought to China over 600 years ago, then to Japan where it is known as "renkon". The plant is a variety of water lily and has been considered as one of the most precious vegetables in East Asia and Japan. Our dried lotus root slices are made from premium lotus roots which are thoroughly washed, sliced, and dried. They are traditionally sun-dried without the use of any chemical additives. Dried lotus roots can be used to make lotus root tea or cooked and added to your soups, rice, or vegetable sauté.