Mimosa pudica (Fabaceae) Touch-me-not

Mimosa pudica (Sensitive Plant)

1. Scientific name and Basic Taxonomic classification

Species: Mimosa pudica

Family: Fabaceae

Genus: Mimosa

Related Herbs from the same family:

Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice/Yashtimadhu): A classic Ayurvedic rejuvenative and demulcent, used to soothe membranes, treat coughs, and as a sweetener in formulations.

Trigonella foenum-graecum (Fenugreek/Methika): The seeds are a potent digestive stimulant, galactagogue, and hypoglycemic agent.

Acacia catechu (Catechu/Khadira): The heartwood extract is a premier astringent used for sore throats, skin diseases, and bleeding disorders.

Saraca asoca (Ashoka): The bark is the most important herb in Ayurveda for female reproductive health, used for uterine disorders and as a uterine tonic.

The Fabaceae family, or legume family, is characterized by its fruit being a pod. Many members are rich in tannins, alkaloids, and complex polysaccharides, leading to uses as astringents, nutritive tonics, and digestive aids.

2. Common names

Scientific Name: Mimosa pudica | English: Sensitive Plant, Touch-me-not | Sanskrit: Lajjalu, Samanga, Khadira | Hindi: Lajwanti, Chui-Mui | Tamil: Thottalsurungi | Telugu: Attapatti | Kannada: Muttidare Muni | Malayalam: Tottavadi | Marathi: Lajalu | Bengali: Lajjavati | Sinhala: Nidhikumba | Spanish: Dormilona | French: Sensitive |

3. Medicinal Uses:

Astringent,Antidiarrheal, Antidepressant (Vrishya), Antivenom (for snake bite), Wound Healing, Anti-inflammatory, Diuretic, Antispasmodic.

Medicinal Parts:

The whole plant is used medicinally,including the roots, leaves, and stems.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Alkaloids (Mimosine): A non-protein amino acid that is the primary alkaloid. Its actions are complex; it can be Toxic in high doses but also exhibits Antioxidant and potential Anticancer properties in studies.

Tannins (Catechins): Potent astringent compounds. Their actions are Antidiarrheal, Wound Healing, and Antioxidant.

Flavonoids (C-Glycosyl Flavones): Unique flavonoids found in Mimosa. Their actions are Anti-inflammatory, Diuretic, and Antioxidant.

Sterols (β-Sitosterol): A plant sterol. Its actions are Anti-inflammatory and it may help in lowering cholesterol (Hypolipidemic).

Amino Acids and Peptides: The plant contains glutathione and other compounds that contribute to its Antioxidant and detoxifying capacity.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Atisara (Diarrhea) & Pravahika (Dysentery)

Formulation: Whole plant decoction.

Preparation & Use: A decoction of the whole plant is consumed to treat acute diarrhea and dysentery.

Reasoning: The high tannin content provides a strong astringent effect, which tightens the intestinal lining and reduces fluid secretion.

Vrana (Wounds) & Dusta Vrana (Non-healing Ulcers)

Formulation: Poultice of the whole plant.

Preparation & Use: The fresh plant is crushed into a paste and applied directly to wounds, cuts, and chronic ulcers to stop bleeding and accelerate healing.

Reasoning: The astringent and antimicrobial properties help cleanse the wound and promote tissue contraction and healing.

Vishahara (Antidote to Toxins) & Sarpa Visha (Snake Venom)

Formulation: Root paste or decoction.

Preparation & Use: In traditional folk medicine, the root is considered an antidote for snake venom and scorpion stings. A paste of the root is applied to the bite site and a decoction is consumed.

Reasoning: While not a substitute for antivenom, studies have shown that extracts can neutralize certain venom enzymes and reduce mortality in experimental models.

Manasika Vikara (Mental Health) & Chittodvega (Anxiety)

Formulation: Whole plant juice or powder.

Preparation & Use: The plant is classified in Ayurveda as a "Vrishya" (aphrodisiac and mood-elevating) herb. It is used in formulations to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depressive states.

Reasoning: Its balancing effect on Vata dosha, which governs the nervous system, is credited for its calming and uplifting properties.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

Mimosa pudica is used almost exclusively for medicine.

Lajjalu Kwatha (Decoction) for Diarrhea

Purpose: To provide rapid relief from acute diarrhea.

Preparation & Use:

· Take a handful of the fresh or dried whole plant.

· Boil in 2 cups of water until it reduces to 1 cup.

· Strain and consume 15-30 ml, twice a day.

Topical Paste for Wounds and Piles

Purpose: To heal wounds and soothe inflamed hemorrhoids.

Preparation & Use:

· Clean and crush the fresh whole plant into a fine paste.

· Apply this paste directly to the affected area.

Lajjalu Swarasa (Fresh Juice) for Intestinal Worms

Purpose: As a deworming agent.

Preparation & Use:

· Extract the juice from the fresh plant.

· Mix 1-2 teaspoons with a little water and consume on an empty stomach for 3-5 days.

7. Disclaimer:

Mimosa pudicais used traditionally but contains mimosine, which can be toxic in high doses, potentially causing hair loss and growth inhibition in animals. Internal use should be short-term and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The use for snake bites is a folk practice and is NOT a substitute for immediate emergency medical care and antivenom therapy.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

· Indian Materia Medica by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni

· Wealth of India - Raw Materials, Vol. VI

· Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Biophytum sensitivum (Little Tree Plant)

* Species:Biophytum sensitivum | Family: Oxalidaceae | Genus: Biophytum

* Similarities:Both plants are "sensitive" and exhibit rapid movement when touched. In Ayurveda, both are used for their astringent properties to treat diabetes, wounds, and urinary disorders. They are often used interchangeably in some traditions.

2. Acacia catechu (Catechu/Khadira)

* Species:Acacia catechu | Family: Fabaceae | Genus: Acacia

* Similarities:Both belong to the Fabaceae family and are exceptionally high in tannins, making them powerful astringents for diarrhea, bleeding disorders, and wound healing. They are both used in classical Ayurvedic formulations for skin and digestive health.

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