Mimosa pudica, the “Touch-Me-Not” plant, is intriguing in its fold-up of leaves upon mere touch. However, aside from that, it is loaded with medicinal properties. Native to South and Central America, the plant has been in use for the most varied health benefits in folk medicine. Let’s discuss the incredible healing power of Mimosa pudica and how to use it effectively.
What is Mimosa Pudica?
Mimosa pudica is a small shrublike plant that has been identified to possess sensitive leaves, which close upon touch. Though it is often noted for this unique movement, bioactive compounds present in the plant, in the form of alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins, are really responsible for its therapeutic properties. The plant has been indicated in Ayurveda, Unani, and traditional medicine for a range of ailments, from common digestive issues to skin-related disorders.
10 Health Benefits of Mimosa Pudica
1. Promotes Gut Health
Mimosa pudica seeds have a gelatinous, sticky nature and contain soluble fiber that traps and eliminates toxins, parasites, and bacteria from the gut. Hence, it is considered to be one of the best remedies for digestion and relieving symptoms of IBS.
2. Diarrhea and Dysentery
The roots and leaves have antimicrobial and astringent actions that help in the management of diarrhea and dysentery by reducing intestinal inflammation and eliminating injurious pathogens.
3. Helps in Wound Healing
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Mimosa pudica are highly effective in wound healing. Its paste can be applied on cuts, burns, and insect bites for faster recovery, reducing the risk of infection.
4. Relieves Pain and Inflammation
This plant is a natural analgesic, so it helps in relieving pain caused by arthritis, joint pain, and other forms of muscle soreness. It also fights against inflammation, providing relief from chronic inflammatory disorders.
5. Aids in Detoxification
Mimosa pudica seeds are known for their detoxifying properties. They bind toxins and heavy metals in the digestive tract, helping the body to get rid of them and promoting detoxification in general.
6. Improves Skin Health
This turns Mimosa pudica into a great treatment for certain skin conditions including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It reduces scarring and can cure irritated skin.
7. Maintenance of Blood Sugar Levels
It exhibits hypoglycemic properties, which works to balance blood sugar with a view to maintaining normalcy for one suffering from diabetes or anyone at risk for diabetes.
8. Immune System Booster
The various antioxidants found in Mimosa pudica make the immune system strong because it neutralizes free radicals and aids the natural barrier of the body.
9. Cures Insomnia and Anxiety
The sedative properties of Mimosa pudica reduce stress and anxiety, hence promoting good sleep quality. It has been used as a herbal remedy for treating insomnia.
10. Liver Protection
It is hepatoprotective in nature and aids the liver against toxins, alcohol, and medications that damage it. It is also known to help in liver regeneration and helps in the maintenance of liver health in general.
How to Use Mimosa Pudica
1. Mimosa Pudica Tea
Ingredients: Fresh/dried leaves of Mimosa pudica, water.
Instructions: Boil 1 teaspoon of Mimosa pudica leaves in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm. Take 1-2 cups daily for best results.
2. Seed Capsules
Mimosa pudica seeds also come in capsule form, which is an easy and effective way to include this plant into your routine. Take as directed on the product label or by a healthcare professional.
3. Topical Paste
Ingredients: Fresh Mimosa pudica leaves, water, or coconut oil.
Preparation Instructions: Crush the leaves into a paste and apply directly onto open wounds, insect bites, or acne; leave on for 20-30 minutes before washing up.
4. Powder Form
Dried leaves and roots can be crushed into a very fine powder and taken with water or honey to treat internal health-related problems, such as digestion issues and inflammation.
5. Tincture
Liquid mimosa pudica tinctures are concentrated and should, therefore, always be mixed into either water or tea. Follow directions on the packaging for correct dosage.
Precautions
As a general rule, there is no known serious side effect to consuming Mimosa pudica in regular dosages; however, there are several precautions, including the following:
Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding since the evidence regarding such condition is scanty.
Allergic Reactions: Before administering a topical application of Mimosa pudica, perform a patch test in order to check for allergic reactions.
Medical Conditions: Use this plant under the consultation of a healthcare practitioner if you have a chronic illness or are on medication.
Dosage: Keep to recommended dosage to avoid adverse responses like digestive discomfort.