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• The bioactive compounds from Nelumbo nucifera (lotus) were reviewed. • Chemical structures and Biosynthesis of flavonoids, alkaloids and lipids in lotus were focused. • The physiological functions of the extracts from different lotus parts were evaluated. • The standardization of the extract, pharmacological and safety of lotus, should be done in future. Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn, commonly known as lotus, is a genus comprising perennial and rhizomatous aquatic plants, found throughout Asia and Australia. This review aimed to cover the biosynthesis of flavonoids, alkaloids, and lipids in plants and their types in different parts of lotus. This review also examined the physiological functions of bioactive compounds in lotus and the extracts from different organs of the lotus plant. The structures and identities of flavonoids, alkaloids, and lipids in different parts of lotus as well as their biosynthesis were illustrated and updated. In the traditional medicine systems and previous scientific studies, bioactive compounds and the extracts of lotus have been applied for treating inflammation, cancer, liver disease, Alzheimer's disease, etc. We suggest future studies to be focused on standardization of the extract of lotus, and their pharmacological mechanisms as drugs or functional foods. This review is important for the lotus-based food processing and application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]