Every part of the plant, be it the seeds, leaves, and the roots is said to have high medicinal value. The following Buzzle article elaborates more on the traditional and medicinal uses of Mimosa pudica.

Touch-Me-Not Plant

The stimulus of touch causes the leaves of the Mimosa pudica plant to rapidly fold inwards. This seems like a way of protecting itself as the plant appears dead, and any grazing animal is likely to ignore eating the plant.The Mimosa pudica, a perennial herb indigenous to Central America, has uses documented in Ayurveda―the ancient Indian medicine system. The plant known for its attractive powderpuff-like flowers is believed to be a panacea for a wide range of ailments. Be it the paste of the roots or the juice of the leaves that display antimicrobial properties, the Mimosa pudica plant is prized for its numerous benefits.

Medicinal Uses
Relieves Hemorrhoid Pain
Hemorrhoids can be really painful, but a herbal remedy backed by a strong history of traditional use can be useful to get rid of this uncomfortable issue. In China, the use of this plant for treating hemorrhoids dates back to as early as 16th century CE.

A paste prepared from the Mimosa pudica herb is found to be useful in alleviating the symptoms of hemorrhoids. The herb is said to act as a natural astringent, display antiseptic properties, and is said to impart a cooling effect. Its astringent properties help shrink the hemorrhoids, which in turn, contributes in reducing swelling. Simply applying the paste on the affected area can help stop bleeding as well as relieve the pain. This natural remedy is sure to drive away the irritation and the itchy sensation associated with hemorrhoids. Drinking milk containing powder of the leaves and root of the plant may also benefit in relieving piles.

Arrests Hair Loss
Using this medicinal herb may slowdown or even stop the onset of baldness. Mimosa pudica is thought to encourage new hair cell growth, which may contribute in arresting hair loss. To promote hair growth, using shampoos containing extracts of the herb are often recommended.

Relieves Arthritis
This plant is said to display anti-inflammatory activity, which may help treat inflammatory conditions like arthritis. So, those suffering from swollen joints may get relief by daily taking 1 - 3 ml tincture of Mimosa pudica diluted with water. Another option is to daily drink a cup of herbal tea made from the leaves of this plant.

Relieves Tooth Pain
The root of the plant is said to display antimicrobial activity. Hence, gargling with a decoction of the root of Mimosa pudica diluted in water may help treat toothaches.

Arrests Bleeding
Mimosa pudica exhibits styptic activity, which can also help stop bleeding in wounds and medical conditions like ulcerative colitis and menorrhagia.

Treats Urinary Problems
Taking a decoction of the root of Mimosa pudica may help treat urinary infections, particularly bladder stones.

Mimosa pudica - Ayurvedic Herb
The salubrious claims of the herb's efficacy are documented in Ayurveda. No wonder, Ayurveda ascribes the use of Mimosa pudica for a wide range of medical conditions, some of which are given below:

✦ Dysentery
✦ Leprosy
✦ Jaundice
✦ Leucoderma
✦ Asthma
✦ Uterine problems
✦ Blood diseases
✦ Fatigue

The juice made from its leaves may help soothe a whooping cough. The juice of the leaves of Mimosa pudica and Sphaeranthus indicus (another herb), are recommended for viral hepatitis.

Uses in Different Cultures
✦ The Quechua people, members of ethnic South American tribes, fill the pillow with this herb to promote sleep during bed time. The herb is believed to provide a relaxing effect, which instills a sense of calmness during the sleep.

✦ In India, the herb is thought to have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, which is why, it is used in the treatment of epilepsy. Rumored to have aphrodisiac qualities, the seeds of the herb are said to enhance libido.

✦ The Guaymi people of Western Panamanian provinces reportedly use an infusion made from the ground stem of Mimosa pudica to treat arthritis.

A point to note here is that none of the benefits of Mimosa pudica have been approved by the USFDA. So, consult your health care provider, before using the herb as a complementary therapy.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.