What is Mimosa Pudica? What are the Health Benefits of Chui Mui, Uses and Side Effects of Shame Plant?

Table of Content

1. Introduction

Mimosa pudica, commonly known as the sensitive plant or shame plant, also known as Lajwanti Beej in Hindi, boasts several common names, including touch-me-not plant, humble plant, and makahiya plant. It is a fascinating herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. Originally native to South and Central America, it has since found its way to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Its most distinctive feature is its leaves, which fold inward and droop upon touch, offering it the intriguing nickname of "touch-me-not" or "shame plant."

In Ayurveda, Mimosa is hailed as tikta (bitter) and kashaya rasa (astringent) in taste, possessing a cooling potency that helps balance Kapha and Pitta doshas. Beyond its cultural significance, Mimosa Pudica offers a treasure trove of health benefits, bridging traditional medicine with modern healthcare practices.

The plant has possessed antinociceptive, antiandrogenic, antidiabetic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, antitumor, antiulcer, antihyperglycemic, immunomodulatory, antifertility, diuretic, hepatoprotective, and wound healing properties.

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2. Common Names of Mimosa Pudica 

Mimosa Pudica, Hindi name is Lajwanti Beej, and some common names are, touch me not plant, sensitive plant, humble plant, shame plant, lajjlu, lajju, makahiya plant, mimosa plant, and shy plant. It is a flowering plant and is mainly found in South America and India. 

3. Uses Of Different Parts Of Chui Mui

Mimosa pudica, also known as the sensitive plant, is a small plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Its leaves, seeds, and roots are used for their medicinal health benefits in Ayurveda. Here are some details on the morphology of Mimosa pudica:

Touch Me Not Plant Flower

The flowers of Mimosa pudica are small and globe-shaped, typically measuring less than a centimeter in diameter. They are pinkish-purple in color and are produced in small clusters at the base of the leaves. Each flower is composed of numerous stamens and a single pistil and is surrounded by several small bracts. The flowers are capable of self-pollination, but may also be pollinated by insects such as bees or butterflies. Once pollinated, the flowers give way to small seed pods that develop over several weeks. Overall, the flowers of Mimosa pudica are small but attractive and add a splash of color to the plant's delicate foliage.

Mimosa Pudica Leaves

The leaves of Mimosa pudica are compound and fern-like in appearance. They are typically bipinnate, meaning they have several pairs of leaflets arranged along a central axis. The leaflets themselves are small and oval-shaped, with a pointed tip and a serrated margin. One unique feature of Mimosa pudica is its ability to rapidly respond to touch or other stimuli, as the leaflets will fold inwards and droop downwards when touched or disturbed.

Uses - The leaves are beneficial in many diseases, it is used in the form of decoction or as a paste or powder for treating hemorrhoids, wounds, fistula, pink eye, toe infections, depression, insomnia, and hydrocele.

Shame Plant Seeds

The seeds of Mimosa pudica are small and flattened, with a hard outer shell. They are typically brown or black and are produced in small pods that develop after the plant flowers.

Uses - The seeds serve numerous health benefits and possess an earthy taste, it has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Mimosa seeds are excellent for the treatment of premature ejaculation, effective on impotency, and support mental health mood disorders, and urinary tract infections.

Mimosa Pudica Roots

The roots of Mimosa pudica are thin and fibrous and typically grow relatively close to the surface of the soil. The plant is capable of growing in a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter.

Uses - The Mimosa Pudica roots are used for many traditional healings including snake bites, wound healing, and treating bleeding piles and ulcers. It is also used for treating snake bites, diarrhea, smallpox, fever, ulcers, jaundice, hemorrhoids, asthma, fistula, and leukoderma. The roots are acidic, hard, bitter in taste, and brown in color.

4. Chemical Composition

Mimosa pudica contains a variety of chemical constituents, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. Some of the specific compounds identified in the plant include:

Mimosine:

An amino acid derivative that is unique to Mimosa pudica. Mimosine has been shown to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as the ability to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.

Flavonoids:

Mimosa pudica contains several flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol. Flavonoids have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may have potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of various diseases.

Tannins:

Mimosa pudica contains tannins, which are polyphenolic compounds that have astringent properties. Tannins have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, as well as the ability to protect against oxidative stress.

Terpenoids:

Mimosa pudica contains several terpenoids, including β-sitosterol and stigmasterol. Terpenoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties and may have potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of various diseases.

5. Nutritional Profile of Mimosa Pudica

Vitamin C:

Mimosa pudica has been found to contain high levels of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that plays an important role in maintaining immune function and protecting against oxidative stress.

Iron:

Some studies have found that Mimosa pudica contains significant amounts of iron, which is an essential mineral that plays a key role in the production of hemoglobin and the transport of oxygen throughout the body.

Calcium:

Mimosa pudica has also been found to contain calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as regulating muscle and nerve function.

6. Types of Mimosa Pudica Plant

Mimosa Pudica

Commonly known as the sensitive plant or touch-me-not, Mimosa pudica is famous for its unique leaf-folding response to touch.

Mimosa Hostiles

Also known as jurema or mimosa and is well-known for its use in traditional medicine and shamanic rituals.

Mimosa Diplotricha

It is commonly referred to as the giant false-sensitive plant or giant sensitive tree. It is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world.

Mimosa Pigra

Also called the giant sensitive plant or black mimosa, this species is native to Central and South America but has become invasive in many tropical regions.

Mimosa Borealis

This species, native to the southern United States, is commonly known as pink mimosa or powderpuff mimosa due to its pink pom-pom-like flowers.

Mimosa Strigillosa

Native to the southeastern United States, this species is known as powderpuff or sunshine mimosa. It is often used as a ground cover in landscaping due to its low-growing habit and pink flower clusters.

7. Health Benefits and Cautionary Considerations

Mimosa Pudica seeds are beneficial in various ailments, they improve digestion, treat respiratory disorders, menstrual and urinary disorders, and skin disorders, and help to eliminate the parasites. 

Mimosa Seeds have antifertility, anticonvulsant, antibacterial, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, antioxidants, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. Mimosa Pudica has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. 

Digestive Health:

• For Physical Weakness: Taking 2 grams of Mimosa pudica seed powder with lukewarm milk at night can help reduce physical weakness.
• To Improve Digestion: Preparing a decoction with Mimosa pudica leaves and consuming it can aid digestion and treat conditions like diarrhea.

Men's Health:

• To Increase Sperm Count: A mixture of Mimosa pudica seed powder and rock sugar powder, taken with lukewarm water, may help increase sperm count.
• For Premature Ejaculation: Equal quantities of Mimosa pudica seeds and rock sugar, consumed with lukewarm milk at night, could be beneficial.

Respiratory Health:

• For Asthma: Mimosa pudica leaf powder, taken with water, can help alleviate cough and congestion.

Skin Health:

• For Itching: A paste of Mimosa leaves mixed with sesame oil can provide relief from itching due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
• For Acne and Skin Conditions: The plant's anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in treating skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Immune System Support:

• Boosting Immunity: Mimosa Pudica contains flavonoids and antioxidants that strengthen the immune system, aiding in the prevention and treatment of infections.

Some Others Health Uses:

For Insomnia

Take 5 grams of Mimosa pudica leaf powder, boil it with a cup of water and strain it. Take this mixture at night before sleep. And see the magical result.

For Jaundice

Make a 5ml juice of Mimosa pudica with water and give it to the patient.

For Diabetes

Take 150ml water and mix Mimosa pudica or lajwanti powder. Boiled it and taken two times a day, helps to control diabetes and maintain sugar levels.

Side Effects of Humble Plant Herb

It is best to avoid Mimosa Pudica during constipation and scanty periods, also seek your doctor's advice if you are on allopathic medicines.

Some Ayurvedic herbs may interact with allopathic or modern medicines. If you are advised for both medicines, take Allopathy medicine first, wait for 30 minutes, and then take Ayurvedic medicine.

Here are some Side Effects of Mimosa Pudica

• Consult the doctor if you are breastfeeding.
• Do not take Mimosa Pudica without a doctor’s prescription if you are pregnant.
• Do not take Mimosa Pudica, if you are suffering from any kind of critical disease.
• If you are on diabetes or hypertension medication. Consult first the doctor before consuming Mimosa Pudica.
• If you are above 65 years old and want to start Mimosa Pudica, consult the doctor, and talk about your health conditions.
• If you are on any supplements, vitamins, or herbal medication, consult the doctor before taking Mimosa Pudica.
• Mimosa Pudica may interact with other medicines like blood sugar or blood pressure allopathy medicines.

8. Mimosa Pudica for Piles

Mimosa pudica possesses certain properties that could potentially provide relief from symptoms associated with hemorrhoids. Here's how Mimosa pudica might be beneficial for piles.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Mimosa pudica contains anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with piles. Hemorrhoids are often associated with inflammation and swelling of the veins in the rectal area.

Astringent Effects

Mimosa pudica contains tannins, which are natural compounds known for their astringent properties. Astringents can help tighten and tone tissues, potentially reducing bleeding and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.

Improvement of Bowel Movements

Mimosa pudica has been traditionally used to support digestive health. By promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. It may help reduce strain during bowel movements, which can exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms.

9. Ayurvedic Recipes of Mimosa Pudica Seeds with Other Herbs

Mimosa Pudica Digestive Elixir:

Ingredients:

• Mimosa Pudica Seeds (Lajwanti Beej) powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cumin Seeds (Jeera): 1/2 teaspoon
• Coriander Seeds (Dhania): 1/2 teaspoon
• Water: 2 cups

Instructions:

• Boil the water with cumin and coriander seeds.
• Add Mimosa Pudica Seeds powder and let it steep for 5 minutes.
• Strain and enjoy this soothing elixir after meals for improved digestion.

Mimosa Pudica Soothing Tea:

Ingredients:

• Mimosa Pudica Seeds (Lajwanti Beej) powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Chamomile Flowers: 1 teaspoon
• Holy Basil (Tulsi) Leaves: a few leaves
• Water: 1 cup
• Honey (optional): to taste

Instructions:

• Boil the water with chamomile flowers and holy basil leaves.
• Add Mimosa Pudica Seeds powder and let it infuse for a few minutes.
• If desired, sweeten with honey for a soothing and calming tea.

Mimosa Pudica Sleep Infusion:

Ingredients:

• Mimosa Pudica Seeds (Lajwanti Beej) powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cardamom pods (crushed): 2 pods
• Water: 2 cups
• Honey (optional): to taste

Instructions:

• Boil the water with Brahmi powder and crushed cardamom pods.
• Add Mimosa Pudica Seeds powder and let it steep for 5 minutes.
• Strain the infusion and add honey for sweetness if desired.
• Enjoy this calming sleep infusion before bedtime to promote deep and restful sleep, balancing Vata dosha.

Mimosa Pudica Immune-Boosting Tea:

Ingredients:

• Mimosa Pudica Seeds (Lajwanti Beej) powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Tulsi (Holy Basil) leaves: a few leaves
• Turmeric powder: 1/4 teaspoon
• Black pepper: a pinch
• Water: 2 cups
• Honey (optional): to taste

Instructions:

• Boil the water with Tulsi leaves, turmeric powder, and a pinch of black pepper.
• Add Mimosa Pudica Seeds powder and let it steep for 5 minutes.
• Strain the tea and add honey for sweetness if desired.
• Sip this immune-boosting tea to strengthen your body's defenses, balancing Pitta dosha.

Mimosa Pudica Joint-Soothing Paste:

Ingredients:

• Mimosa Pudica Seeds (Lajwanti Beej) powder: 1 tablespoon
• Turmeric powder: 1 tablespoon
• Aloe vera gel: 1 tablespoon

Instructions:

• Mix Mimosa Pudica Seeds powder and turmeric powder in a bowl.
• Add aloe vera gel to the mixture and blend well to form a smooth paste.
• Apply this paste to the affected joints and muscles.
• Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing off.
• This soothing paste helps alleviate joint discomforts and balances Kapha dosha.

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10. Recommended Dosage

The dosage depends upon the health condition of an individual which is recommended by an Ayurvedic practitioner. But the general recommendations are:

Fresh Juice: 15 to 20 ml

Leaf Decoction: 50 to 75 ml

Tincture:1 to 3 ml per day

Capsules:1 to 2 capsules per day

Topical Application Of Extract: As per the requirement