Medicinal Uses Of Mimosa Pudica

Mimosa pudica, also called sensitive plant, humble plant, touch me not, or shame plant, is a prostrate or semi-erect subshrub plant native to Asia and the Pacific Islands, and in the pea family (Fabaceae). As its name implies, the mimosa is a very interesting plant, and its leaves will fold up when you gently touch them. Many people like this shy plant and keep it at home as an ornament. But how does this unassuming plant deliver such incredible health benefits? Let’s dive deeper into its medicinal uses and explore how it can improve our well-being.

The Magic of Mimosa pudica

This fascinating plant is famous for its touch-sensitive leaves that fold inward when disturbed. While this trait is primarily a defense mechanism, it has intrigued botanists and scientists for years. A team of researchers led by Takaye Tsuchiya of Sophia University in Japan has solved the mystery of the closed motion of the mimosa plant: cells of the plant are supported by tiny net-like proteins called actin. When closing motion occurs, the phosphoric acid of kinetoprotein is shed, and as long as the mimosa plant does not absorb the phosphoric acid shedding compound, it does not change when touched. Tsuchiya points out that when the kinetoprotein bundles are spread apart, the cells are destroyed, resulting in water escaping and a closed motion. Kinetoprotein is commonly found in muscle fibers of animals and is associated with muscle stretching and contraction, also found in mimosas pudica.

Is mimosa pudica poisonous?

Mimosa is slightly toxic and contains a substance called mimosaine that can cause hair to turn yellow or even fall out. Mimosa is harmless during the day but releases toxins at night because it can’t photosynthesize. Mimosas need strong light, indoor light can not meet its growth needs. Therefore, we suggest that it is best to keep mimosa outdoors in order to avoid harm to the body.

Ingestion of mimosas often causes disease in livestock. The most common is the poisoning caused by cattle eating mimosas without thorns, which manifests as depressed spirit, grinding teeth, panting, dyspnea, neurological symptoms, edema, and generally more in winter. In addition, due to the content of mimosa, camels, horses, and other edible mimosas will appear to have a molting phenomenon.

The medical benefits of mimosa pudica

There are a few different medicinal uses for mimosa pudica. The whole herb of Mimosa pudica is used to treat a variety of diseases. In Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, Mimosa is used for its leaves, roots and seeds. The roots are astringents and anti-inflammatory agents, and the seeds are used as an emetics, astringents, analgesics, and analgesics, which are often added to herbal tea. In traditional Chinese medicine, the entire plant has a long history for wound healing, pain relief, and as a natural deworming agent.

Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Properties

One of the standout benefits of Mimosa Pudica is its powerful antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Studies have shown that Mimosa Pudica extracts can inhibit the growth of various pathogens, including E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. This makes it a valuable natural remedy to treat skin infections, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and respiratory infections. Its antibacterial properties also make it an effective wound cleanser.

Antioxidant Properties

Free radicals in the body can lead to oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and chronic diseases. Mimosa Pudica is rich in antioxidants that neutralize these harmful molecules, protecting the body from cellular damage.

Regular consumption of Mimosa Pudica may help slow down aging, improve heart health, and lower the risk of cancer. Recent studies suggest that Mimosa Pudica may have neuroprotective effects, offering potential benefits for managing conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy.

Wound Healing and Skin Care

The plant’s anti-inflammatory and healing properties make it a popular ingredient in ointments and creams for treating wounds and skin irritations. In traditional medicine, the plant’s leaves were used to treat wounds and to heal them. Traditionally, juice of the leaves was made and applied to the wound. An extract of 2%–8% was found to have significant wound-healing activity. For instance, ethanolic extract from the leaves of this plant reduced gastric acid secretion and ulcer index, and the amount of acid in the stomach was decreased. A decoction of the root contains high levels of phenols, which are important compounds in healing wounds. Water extract from the dried root was highly effective in repressing snake venom.

Gut Health and Parasite Control

Mimosa pudica root is celebrated for its ability to reduce inflammation and has been used to treat various conditions. It provide relief for conditions like arthritis and gut disease. This perennial herb is an important herbal medicine for ulcers. A study showed that an ethanol extract of the plant significantly reduced the formation of ulcers in rats, Mimosa extract reduced the formation of ulcers by 40%. Another study showed that an ethanol extract of the root effectively halted diarrhea in albino rats.

Conclusion

Mimosa Pudica is more than just a touch-sensitive plant, it’s a treasure trove of medicinal benefits. From traditional remedies to cutting-edge research, this plant continues to capture the interest of healthcare professionals and enthusiasts. One of the most interesting things about Mimosa pudica is its medicinal uses in various cultures. While it is useful for the treatment of rheumatic pain, it is also used in other countries. Whether you’re seeking relief from inflammation, improved gut health, or neuroprotection, Mimosa Pudica offers a natural and effective solution. Noting if you are pregnant, consult your doctor before taking the mimosa pudica extract products.