This is a perennial aquatic plant belonging to the water lily family. Commonly found in Latvian lakes, river backwaters, and slow-flowing rivers. The root is thick, elongated, and juicy, with visible remains of leaf stalks. It blooms from June to August. The sepals of the flower are five, yellow, greenish at the base. The fruit matures underwater. Chlorophyll plastids are located only on the upper surface of the leaves, where photosynthesis occurs.

In medicine, the rhizomes are used. Alkaloids obtained from the drug act on trichomonads and certain microorganisms. Fresh root essence is used in homeopathy. Using rhizomes according to traditional medicine instructions can lead to poisoning. It is important that the duration and dosage of treatment be determined by a competent specialist, otherwise, treatment with yellow water lily can cause increased drowsiness, the central nervous system depression, vomiting, and diarrhea. Overdose can cause severe poisoning and even death. Preparations made from yellow water lily should not be used by children, as the plant is toxic. Pregnant women are also prohibited from using yellow water lily, regardless of the term.

Photo: www.redzet.eu

Information sources: www.latvijasdaba.lv, Wikipedia, methodological material on the study of the lake 'Getting to Know Lake Aquatic Plants!'