The long history and varied claims have led to extensive research on the potential use of lotus leaf. According to a study in "Nutrition & Metabolism," lotus leaf extract, when combined with L-carnitine, "might represent a treatment option for obesity-related diseases." The mixture was shown to prevent adipogenesis, the formation of fatty tissue. Research conducted by Japanese scientists had similar results. The study monitored the effects of lotus leaf extract on obese mice for five weeks. The results showed that lotus leaf slowed the absorption of fat and carbohydrates, increased energy expenditure and accelerated lipid metabolism. Lotus leaf also prevented the increase of body weight.