Having tasted this fruit, it is hard to believe that this has impressed Odysseus and his crew of adventurers. Of course, it is reasonable to assume that the ancient Greek hero remained close to his homeland, but this is unlikely, given the number of years it took to return home after the Trojan War.
Most likely he traveled to Asia and faced the Holy Lotus. The Holy Lotus, as Homer wrote in Book 9 of the Odyssey, caused Odysseus and his followers to forget the purpose of their journey, which is why some commentators.
However, if you have a look at the seed pods you will see that they resemble those opium poppy. Each pod carries about 24 seeds. In Cambodia, these are evaluated as a very delicious snack!
The lotus is also estimated for its medicinal properties, as it contains nosperin and epryphine, morphine-like substances. This indicates that Lethe sleep may be induced if the plant is ingested. No wonder Odysseus has a very long time to get home.
Herodotus, the father of history, believed that those who ate lotus were residents of the Libyan coastal area. However, Herodotus is not always a reliable source. In the ancient world eating the lotus fruit is thought to cause forgetfulness.
Perhaps the lotus eaters did not already exist. However, it certainly captured the fantasies of generations. The English poet, Alfred Lord Tennyson, wrote The Lotos - Eaters about them and the idea of them also captured the imagination of Edith Wharton. As can be seen in her novel The Age of Innocence. Rick Riordan's fans will no doubt remember the theme of "Lotus Eucalyptus" in his "Half Blood Camp Records."
If you are curious enough to experience the Greek lotus, go to the Peloponnese in the fall. I have seen the fruit still on the trees in the winter (there does not seem to be anyone who reaps it). However, you should ask for permission to try the lotus fruits. It is also grown in the gardens of private homes.
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