Background Information on Shame Me Darling as a Traditional Herb:-

Shame Me Darling Herb (Mimosa Pudica) is a native of Tropical South America but is now also widespread through all tropical regions of the world. It is known for its sensitivity to touch for the leaves close very quickly when touched, thus its many colloquial names which include Sensitive Plant, Humble Plant, Shameful Plant, Sleeping Grass, Touch-Me-Not, Chuimui, & Ant-Plant.

Mimosa pudica contains the toxic alkaloid mimosine, which has been found to also have antiproliferative and apoptotic effects. Aqueous extracts of the roots of the plant have shown significant neutralizing effects in the lethality of the venom of the monocled cobra (Naja Kaouthia). It appears to inhibit the myotoxicity and enzyme activity of cobra venom.

Traditional Uses of Shame Me Darling as a Traditional Herb:-

Shame me Darling, backed by a strong history of traditional use can be useful to get rid of the uncomfortable issue of haemorrhoids. In China, the use of this plant for treating haemorrhoids dates back to as early as 16th century CE. It is antiseptic and astringent and has a cooling effect.

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. Otherwise simply make an infusion, let it cool and then massage as a final rinse into the hair after washing

This plant is said to display anti-inflammatory activity, which may help treat inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Make a daily cup of herbal tea from the leaves of this plant.

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

An infusion of Mimosa pudica may help treat urinary infections, particularly bladder stones.

In Ayurvedic medicine, the use of Mimosa pudica is recommended for a wide range of medical conditions such as Dysentery, Jaundice, Leucoderma, Asthma, Uterine problems, Blood diseases & Fatigue

The seeds of the plant have been used as a vermifuge.

Cultural Uses of Shame Me Darling as a Traditional Herb:-

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.