A Review on Ethnomedical and Traditional Uses of Mimosa Pudica (chui-mui)

Mimosa pudica (from Latin: Pudica”shy, shrinking” also called sensitive plant and touch me not), is a creeping annual and perennial herb.The species is native to South America and Central America. Mimosa belongs to the taxonomic group Magnoliopsida and family Mimosaseae. It has been described as”sparshaat sankochataam yaati punashcha prasruta bhavet”a plant which folds itself when touched and spreads its leaves once again after a while. The roots, leaves and flower heads of Mimosa pudica may be used by those who practice ayurveda. The sensitive plant is commonly used for bleeding disorders like menorrhagia, dysentry with blood, mucus and piles. It is due to the specific characteristics of its leaves that mimosa is regarded as a plant of high ornamental value. Since it has an ability of fixing atmospheric nitrogen, it grows well even in nutrient deficient soils.It is mainly used in herbal preparation for gynecological disorders. Recent researches show that the extract of this plant can be used for checking child birth. Some herbal doctors recommend it for bronchitis, general weakness and impotence. All five parts of the plant (that is the panchang) leaves, flowers, stems, roots and fruits are used as medicines in the traditional health care system.