Lajjalu (Lajjalu (Shami Patra, Samanga, Jalakarika))
Mimosa pudica, commonly known as Lajjalu or the sensitive plant, is a herb recognized in Ayurveda for its cooling, astringent, and Kapha-Pitta pacifying properties. Modern research explores its potential therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial activities.
Botanical name: Mimosa pudica. Also known as: Lajjalu, Sensitive plant, touch-me-not, humble plant, shame plant, action plant, sleepy grass, sleepy plant, touch-and-die, shy plant, Lajwanti, Chuimui, shameplant, Namaskari, Sankochani, Raktapada, Raktamoola, Tamramoola.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Antidiabetic, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Neuroprotective
Dosage
The appropriate dosage of Mimosa pudica depends on the strength of the extract and the intended use. Capsules: A common dosage is 2 capsules (500mg each) in the morning and 2 before bed on an empty stomach. Some individuals may need to start with a lower dose if they experience discomfort. Powder: Mix ½–1 teaspoon (2–5 g) of Lajjalu Powder with warm water, honey, or milk once daily, or as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner. Aggressive Dosage: For a more intense effect, dosages of 2000 mg - 3000 mg per day have been used, but it's not recommended to exceed 3000 mg per day. Excessive Bleeding: Take ½ teaspoon of Mimosa pudica powder with cold water twice daily. Children: Dosage should be determined by weight. Always consult with a healthcare professional or Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Bitter, Astringent
- Virya: ["Cooling"]
- Vipaka: ["Pungent"]
Benefits
- Kaphahara
- Pittahara
- Shothahara
- Raktapitta hara
Traditional uses
- Wound healing
- Urogenital disorders
- Dysentery
- Sinus piles
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Powder: The leaves and roots are dried and finely milled into a powder. This powder can be mixed with water, honey, or milk for internal use.
- Poultice/Ointment: Lajjalu is used topically in the form of poultices or ointments to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation.
- Decoction: Boil 10–15 grams of fresh Mimosa Pudica leaves in water. The decoction of the root is given in dysentery and urinary calculi.
- Fresh Juice: The plant can be taken as a fresh juice.
- Extraction: Mimosa can be extracted using a 60% ethanol solution for reflux extraction, followed by filtration and distillation.
- Paste: The powder can be made into a paste and applied topically.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Gastrointestinal Upset
- Cellular Toxicity
- Allergic Reactions
- Drug Interactions
- Constipation and Scanty Periods
- Allergy/Hypersensitivity
- Lactation
Side effects
- While Mimosa pudica is generally considered safe when used properly, overuse can be harmful.
- The tannin present in the plant can be toxic if ingested in high doses.
- It should be avoided during pregnancy due to its antifertility properties.
- Weight loss, slight alterations in the brain, liver, lung, heart, thymus, and kidneys.
- May slightly increase Vata if taken excessively.
- In mice studies, Mimosa pudica used as a sedative resulted in decreased body weight, plasma proteins, and increased glucose and alanine aminotransferase enzyme activity.
Interactions
- Information on potential drug-herb interactions is limited.
- Use caution in patients taking Mimosa with anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, and antibacterial medications.
- Should be taken away from food and other chelating agents.
Clinical evidence
Although clinical trials are limited, preclinical studies indicate potential anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial activities of Mimosa pudica. Further research is needed to validate these findings in human trials.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Kaphahara
- Pittahara
- Shothahara
- Raktapitta hara
Classical clinical indications
- Wound healing
- Urogenital disorders
- Dysentery
- Sinus piles