1. INTRODUCTION:

Mimosa pudica is a plant that closes its leaves when touched. It is part of the pea family and has fascinated people for a long time because of this unusual behavior. Native to tropical regions of South and Central America, Mimosa pudica has now become naturalized throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands.

It is a small, herbaceous, creeping or semi-erect perennial plant that thrives in moist, well-drained soils and sunny environments. The plant is easily recognized by its delicate, fern-like leaves that fold inward and droop instantly when touched, shaken, or exposed to heat an extraordinary movement known as “thigmonasty” or “seismonasty.” This rapid leaf-folding response, which is reversible after a few minutes, is believed to serve as a defense mechanism to protect the plant from herbivores or environmental stress.¹

The Mimosa pudica plant typically grows up to 30–90 cm in height, with slender, prickly stems and bipinnate leaves arranged alternately. During its flowering season, the plant produces small, globular pink or purplish inflorescences that add to its ornamental appeal. Beyond its aesthetic and biological interest, Mimosa pudica possesses significant medicinal and ecological value. In traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and folk medicine, different parts of the plant-leaves, roots, and seeds-are used for their therapeutic properties, including antiinflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and wound-healing effects. It is also employed in the treatment of ailments such as insomnia, diarrhea, skin diseases, and urinary infections. From an ecological standpoint, Mimosa pudica plays an important role in nitrogen fixation, contributing to soil fertility and the maintenance of ecosystem balance.²

The history of Mimosa pudica dates back to the early 18th century when it first caught the attention of naturalists and botanists in Europe. The species name pudica is derived from the Latin word pudicus, meaning “shy” or “bashful,” which reflects its distinctive leaf-folding behavior. Early explorers and scientists such as Carl Linnaeus described and classified the plant, noting its unique sensitivity to external stimuli a rare trait among plants. During the colonial period, Mimosa pudica was introduced from South America to other tropical regions, where it adapted easily to local climates. In traditional medicine, especially in Indian Ayurveda and South American folk healing, it was valued for its therapeutic properties and was referred to by various local names such as “Lajjalu” in Sanskrit and “Makahiya” in Filipino culture, symbolizing modesty or shyness.³

In addition to its mechanical sensitivity and medicinal potential, Mimosa pudica also exhibits interesting antifungal properties. Various studies have shown that extracts from different parts of the plant especially the leaves, roots, and seeds possess significant antifungal activity against several pathogenic fungi such as Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Fusarium oxysporum, and Penicillium species. These antifungal effects are attributed to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and glycosides, which inhibit fungal growth and spore germination. Furthermore, Mimosa pudica maintains mutualistic associations with certain beneficial soil fungi, particularly mycorrhizal fungi, which enhance its nutrient uptake and nitrogen-fixing capabilities. This symbiotic relationship contributes to its ecological success and soil-improving potential.⁴

In modern science, Mimosa pudica is widely studied for its rapid plant movement, electrical signaling, and physiological responses to stimuli, offering valuable insights into plant behavior and adaptation. Its unique sensitivity to touch has made it an important subject in botany, plant physiology, and even robotics research that mimics natural movement. Overall, Mimosa pudica is an extraordinary plant that exemplifies the complexity and responsiveness of plant lifecapturing both scientific curiosity and cultural fascination around the world.⁵

2. PLANT PROFILE:

a) Mimosa pudica:

Fig. Mimosa pudica L.

b) Taxonomical Classification:⁶

Kingdom	Plantae
Subkingdom	Tracheobionta (Vascular plants)
Superdivision	Spermatophyta (Seed plants)
Division	Magnoliophyta (Flowering plants / Angiosperms)
Class	Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons)
Subclass	Rosidae
Order	Fabales
Family	Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Subfamily	Mimosoideae
Genus	Mimosa
Kingdom	Plantae

c) Vernacular Name:⁷

1. English: Sensitive plant, Touch-me-not, Shame plant

2. Hindi: Lajwanti, Chhui-Mui

3. Sanskrit: Lajjalu

4. Tamil: Thottavadi

5. Telugu: Atta Saramu

6. Kannada: Mutthidare Muni

7. Malayalam: Thottavadi

8. Marathi: Lajalu, Lajwanti

9. Bengali: Lajjabati

10. Gujarati: Lajvanti

11. Chinese: Hanxiu Cao (means “shy grass”)

12. Japanese: Ojigi-so (means “bowing plant”)

13. Spanish/Portuguese: Dormideira or Sensitiva (means “sleepy” or “sensitive” plant)

d) Botanical Description:⁸

1. Scientific Name: Mimosa pudica L.

2. Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)

3. Common Names: Sensitive plant, Touch-me-not, Shame plant, Lajwanti, Makahiya

4. Habit:

· A small, herbaceous, creeping or semi-erect plant.

· Grows close to the ground and spreads easily.

5. Height:

· Usually 30–90cm tall.

6. Stem:

· Slender, green or reddish in color.

· Covered with fine hairs and small prickles (spines).

7. Leaves:

· Compound and bipinnate (each leaf divided into small leaflets).

· Leaflets are small, narrow, and oblong in shape.

· Leaves fold inward and droop when touched (thigmonastic movement).

· Reopen after a few minutes of rest.

8. Flowers:

· Small, round, fluffy, pink or purplish flower heads.

· Flowers are borne on stalks arising from leaf axils.

· Bloom mainly during warm months.

9. Fruits:

· Small, flat seed pods (legumes).

· Each pod contains 2–5 small brown seeds.

10. Roots:

· Taproot system with many side branches.

· Helps in nitrogen fixation through root nodules.

11. Reproduction:

· Propagates mainly by seeds.

12. Special Characteristic:

· Sensitive to touch, vibration, and light - leaves fold when touched.

· This is called thigmonasty or seismonasty.

13. Habitat:

· Commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.

· Grows in moist soils, gardens, roadsides, and open fields.

14. Lifespan:

· Can be annual or short-lived perennial, depending on the climate.

15. Odor and Taste:

· No distinct odor; slightly bitter taste (in herbal form).

3. Chemical Constituents:⁹

1. Alkaloids:

Alkaloids, found mainly in the roots and leaves of Mimosa pudica, exhibit antifungal properties by penetrating fungal cell walls and membranes, inhibiting key fungal enzymes, and disrupting essential metabolic pathways. These actions result in the death of fungal cells, making alkaloids effective against both yeast and filamentous fungi.

2. Flavonoids:

Alkaloids are primarily located in the roots and leaves of Mimosa pudica and demonstrate antifungal activity by penetrating the fungal cell walls and membranes. They inhibit critical fungal enzymes and disrupt essential metabolic pathways, ultimately causing fungal cell death. This makes alkaloids effective against a broad range of fungi, including both yeast and filamentous species.

3. Tannins:

Tannins, present in the leaves, stems, and roots of Mimosa pudica, exhibit antifungal activity by binding to fungal proteins in the cell walls and membranes, causing structural damage. This action reduces fungal growth and inhibits spore germination, helping to control fungal infections.

4. Saponins:

Saponins, located in the roots and seeds of Mimosa pudica, display antifungal activity by interacting with sterols in fungal cell membranes, forming pores, and causing leakage of cellular contents. This disruption leads to fungal cell lysis and ultimately results in cell death.

5. Terpenoids:

Terpenoids, present in the leaves, stems, and flowers of Mimosa pudica, exhibit antifungal activity by disrupting fungal enzyme systems and altering membrane fluidity, as well as inhibiting spore germination. These actions collectively impair fungal growth and reduce toxin production.

6. Phenolic Compounds:

Phenolic compounds, found in the leaves and flowers of Mimosa pudica, show antifungal activity by inducing oxidative stress in fungal cells and interfering with the assembly of their cell walls. This dual action prevents fungal colonization and promotes apoptosis of the fungal cells.

7. Glycosides:

Glycosides, present in the roots and leaves of Mimosa pudica, exhibit antifungal activity by inhibiting key fungal metabolic enzymes and disrupting intracellular signaling pathways. These mechanisms slow down fungal growth and reduce the overall viability of the fungal cells.

8. Mimosine:

Mimosine, found in the leaves and seeds of Mimosa pudica, demonstrates antifungal activity by inhibiting fungal protein synthesis through chelation of essential metal ions required for enzyme function. This action reduces fungal proliferation and decreases spore viability.

4. Pharmacological Activities:

1. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties:

Mimosa pudica exhibits significant antimicrobial and antifungal properties, primarily due to the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and mimosine. These compounds act by disrupting microbial cell walls, inhibiting essential enzymes, and interfering with protein synthesis, thereby effectively inhibiting the growth of various pathogens. The plant has demonstrated activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as fungal species such as Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Fusarium species. Leaves, roots, and seeds are commonly used in traditional and experimental applications. Furthermore, studies suggest that extracts of Mimosa pudica may exhibit synergistic effects when combined with conventional antibiotics, enhancing antimicrobial efficacy and potentially reducing the development of microbial resistance.¹⁰

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

Mimosa pudica demonstrates notable anti-inflammatory activity, primarily due to the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds. These bioactive constituents act by inhibiting key inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins, cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, and cytokines including TNF-α and IL-6, thereby reducing inflammation and tissue damage. The plant has potential applications in managing conditions such as arthritis, dermatitis, eczema, and other inflammatory disorders. Leaves, roots, and stems are commonly utilized for these purposes. Additionally, traditional medicine employs topical applications of leaf paste to alleviate localized swelling and pain, supporting its practical therapeutic use.¹¹

3. Antioxidant Activity:

Mimosa pudica exhibits strong antioxidant activity, which is largely attributed to its phenolic compounds and flavonoids. These bioactive constituents scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibit lipid peroxidation, and prevent oxidative damage to DNA and proteins, thereby protecting cellular structures from free radical-induced injury. As a result, the plant has potential applications in preventing oxidative stress-related conditions, including aging, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and complications associated with diabetes. Leaves, flowers, and seeds are the primary plant parts utilized for their antioxidant properties.¹²

4. Wound Healing Activity:

Mimosa pudica possesses effective wound healing properties, which are primarily attributed to tannins, saponins, and flavonoids. Tannins precipitate proteins to form protective layers over wounds, saponins enhance cell proliferation and tissue regeneration, and flavonoids provide antimicrobial protection, preventing infections at the injury site. Consequently, the plant is traditionally used for treating cuts, burns, ulcers, surgical wounds, and various skin sores. Leaves and roots are the main plant parts employed, and in rural medicine, poultices made from these parts are commonly applied to accelerate the healing process.¹³

5. Antidiabetic Effects:

Mimosa pudica exhibits notable antidiabetic activity, largely due to the presence of flavonoids and alkaloids. These bioactive compounds enhance insulin secretion, improve peripheral glucose uptake, and reduce oxidative stress in pancreatic β-cells, thereby supporting normal blood sugar regulation. As a result, the plant has potential applications in managing hyperglycemia and mitigating diabetic complications such as neuropathy and retinopathy. Leaves and roots are the primary plant parts used for these antidiabetic purposes.¹⁴

6. Hepatoprotective Activity:

Mimosa pudica demonstrates significant hepatoprotective activity, primarily due to its antioxidant bioactive compounds. These constituents neutralize free radicals and prevent damage to hepatocytes caused by toxic agents, thereby preserving liver function. The plant has shown protective effects against chemically induced liver injuries, such as those caused by carbon tetrachloride and paracetamol toxicity. Leaves and roots are the main plant parts utilized for their hepatoprotective properties.¹⁵

7. Neuroprotective and Sedative Effects:

Mimosa pudica exhibits notable neuroprotective and sedative effects, which are primarily attributed to its bioactive compounds. These constituents reduce neuronal oxidative stress, modulate GABAergic and serotonergic neurotransmission, and inhibit excitotoxicity, thereby supporting proper nervous system function. Consequently, the plant may be useful in alleviating anxiety, mild insomnia, stress, and cognitive decline. Leaves and flowers are the primary plant parts employed for these neuroprotective and calming benefits.¹⁶

8. Diuretic and Kidney-Protective Activity:

Mimosa pudica demonstrates significant diuretic and kidney-protective activity, primarily through its bioactive compounds that promote urine output, reduce inflammation in renal tissues, and prevent the formation of kidney stones. These effects help support overall urinary tract health, prevent infections, and assist in managing conditions such as edema. Roots and leaves are the main plant parts utilized for these kidney-protective and diuretic purposes.

9. Anti-allergic and Immunomodulatory Effects:

Mimosa pudica exhibits notable anti-allergic and immunomodulatory activity, primarily due to the presence of flavonoids and saponins. These bioactive compounds suppress histamine release, regulate cytokine production, and modulate immune cell function, thereby reducing hypersensitivity and allergic responses. As a result, the plant may be effective in managing conditions such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, and other immune-mediated reactions. Leaves and roots are the main plant parts employed for these therapeutic purposes.¹⁷

5. Medicinal Uses:

Mimosa pudica, commonly known as the sensitive plant, has been widely used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and folk medicine for its diverse therapeutic properties. Traditionally, its leaves and roots are applied as pastes or decoctions to treat wounds, burns, boils, acne, and other skin disorders, owing to their antimicrobial and astringent properties. The plant is also used to manage diarrhea, dysentery, and intestinal infections, as its tannin content helps reduce gut irritation and control loose stools. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects make it valuable for alleviating joint pain, swelling, and conditions like arthritis, while leaf decoctions are employed for respiratory ailments such as asthma, cough, and cold. Additionally, Mimosa pudica serves as a diuretic, supporting urinary tract health and kidney function, and is used as a mild sedative to calm nerves, reduce stress, and manage insomnia. In folk medicine, it is also believed to reduce fever, purify the blood, and enhance overall vitality, with some practices using it to address menstrual irregularities and support reproductive health. Its broad spectrum of uses highlights its importance as a versatile medicinal plant in traditional healing practices.¹⁸

6. CONCLUSION:

Mimosa pudica is an important medicinal plant with a wide range of therapeutic properties due to its rich content of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, phenolics, glycosides, and mimosine. It exhibits antimicrobial, antifungal, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, wound-healing, antidiabetic, anticancer, analgesic, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and gastroprotective activities. Pharmacognostical studies provide reliable identification and quality control parameters, while phytochemical evaluations scientifically validate its traditional uses. Overall, Mimosa pudica holds significant potential as a natural source for developing herbal medicines and phyto-pharmaceutical formulations.

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Received on 18.12.2025 Revised on 17.01.2026

Accepted on 07.02.2026 Published on 22.04.2026

Available online from April 24, 2026

Res.J. Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics.2026;18(2):191-196.

DOI: 10.52711/2321-5836.2026.00026

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Creative Commons License.