Scientific Name: Mimosa pudica
Mimosa pudica also called sensitive plant, sleepy plant, action plant, touch-me-not, or shameplant.
Family: Fabaceae
Lajjalu is a small, creeping annual or perennial herb that is native to South and Central America but is now found in various parts of the world. It is characterized by its sensitive compound leaves, which fold inward and droop when touched, shaken, or exposed to heat or light—a phenomenon known as “thigmonasty.” The plant typically produces pink or purple flowers and small, pod-like fruits.
Chemical constituents :
Chemical analysis has shown that Mimosa pudica contains various compounds, including “alkaloids, flavonoid C-glycosides, sterols, terenoids, tannins, saponin and fatty acids”. The roots of the plant have been shown to contain up to 10% tannin. A substance similar to adrenaline has been found within the plant’s leaves.
Properties :
AYURVEDIC
Rasa (Taste): Kashaya (Astringent), Tikta (Bitter)
Guna (Quality): Laghu (Light), Ruksha (Dry)
Virya (Potency): Sheeta (Cool)
Vipaka (Post-digestive Taste): Katu (Pungent)
Dosha: Lajjalu is known for its ability to balance Pitta and Kapha doshas.
Pharmacological Action
It majorly possesses antibacterial, antivenom, antifertility, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, and various other pharmacological activities. The herb has been used traditionally for ages, in the treatment of urogenital disorders, piles, dysentery, sinus, and also applied on wounds.
Benefits :
Lajjalu has a range of traditional uses and benefits in Ayurveda and traditional medicine:
Wound Healing: Lajjalu is often used topically in the form of poultices or ointments to promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and soothe skin irritations.
Digestion: It is used to address digestive issues, including diarrhea and dysentery, due to its astringent and anti-diarrheal properties.
Respiration: Lajjalu may help relieve coughs and respiratory conditions by soothing irritated mucous membranes.
Anti-inflammatory: It is used for its anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate conditions involving inflammation, such as arthritis and joint pain.
Anti-microbial: Lajjalu has demonstrated antimicrobial activity and may help combat certain infections.
Pain Relief: It is sometimes used to reduce pain, especially in musculoskeletal conditions.
Urinary Disorders: Lajjalu is used to address urinary issues and may help reduce urinary tract infections.
Reproductive Health: It has been traditionally used to address issues related to the female reproductive system.
Anti-anxiety: Some traditional systems of medicine use Lajjalu for its potential calming and anti-anxiety effects.