Hibiscus flower is said to be the favorite of Durga or Kali, the mother goddess who is a metaphor for destroying negativities in us. You can steep a few teaspoons of dried hibiscus flowers (available at flower markets in bloom and then dry them yourself) in boiling water for a cupful of a delightful, slightly sour deep, red tea. It is an exotic tea, but these days most health shops and local tea brands are also marketing hisbiscus tea bags which is easier to use and store.

Benefits: Hibiscus tea lowers cholesterol and blood pressure.

The lotus is a favorite seat of most yoga goddesses. Padma or lotus is also the prefix for various classical yoga poses. You can introduce lotus in your diet too since the various parts of lotus can be stirred up in scores of recipes. It is a popular ingredient in all south-east Asian countries. Lotus seeds are said to be rich in protein, and used to add body to soups. The roots can be prepared into curry, salad or sabzi, tea, pickles etc.

Benefits: While the seeds are rich in protein, the root seems to have near-magical medical value in controlling respiratory congestions, and internal bleeding (nose and digestive tract).

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