Empty a lotus seed pod of its seeds and, more often than seems reasonable, what's left behind looks like it's mid-scream — two wide "eyes," a gaping "mouth," and an expression that ranges from shocked to mournful depending on the angle. What's Actually in the Picture The pods come from the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), an aquatic plant whose flower gives way to a flat, … [Read more...] about Why Lotus Seed Pods End Up Looking Like They’re Pulling Faces
trypophobia
Scientists Think They’ve Finally Worked Out Why This Image Freaks You Out
For many people, a simple image of clustered holes may seem harmless. But for those who experience trypophobia, patterns such as honeycombs, sponge textures, seed pods, or groups of small circles can trigger intense feelings of fear, discomfort, anxiety, and even physical reactions. Now, scientists believe they may have uncovered the reason behind this unusual reaction — and … [Read more...] about Scientists Think They’ve Finally Worked Out Why This Image Freaks You Out