Daun Semalu (Mimosa pudica): The Sensitive Plant with Potent Healing Properties
Abstract
Mimosa pudica, known locally as Daun Semalu, is a creeping herb native to tropical regions and well known for its rapid response to physical stimuli. Despite its reputation as a weed, the plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Asia and Latin America. This article reviews its botanical profile, traditional applications, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and its interpretation within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) frameworks.
1. Botanical Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mimosa pudica L. |
| Common Names | Daun Semalu, Semalu, Touch-me-not, Sensitive Plant, Shameplant |
| Family | Fabaceae (Legume family) |
| Origin | Native to South and Central America; widespread in tropics |
| Growth Habit | Low-growing, creeping herb with thorny stems, bipinnate leaves, and pink ball-shaped flowers |
Key Feature: The plant exhibits thigmonasty, where leaves fold inward upon touch or vibration, a defense mechanism to deter herbivores.
2. Traditional Uses in Malay and Other Folk Medicines
In Malay traditional medicine, Daun Semalu is known for its astringent, cooling, and wound-healing effects.
| Preparation Method | Traditional Use |
|---|---|
| Crushed fresh leaves | Applied to wounds, boils, or insect bites to stop bleeding and accelerate healing |
| Decoction of leaves | Consumed to treat diarrhea, stomach pain, or urinary tract infections |
| Root paste | Used externally to relieve gout, joint pain, or swelling |
| Whole plant infusion | Taken as a general tonic for menstrual cramps or mild insomnia |
3. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Interpretation
Although Mimosa pudica is not part of the traditional Chinese pharmacopeia, its energetic functions can be interpreted using TCM principles:
| TCM Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Thermal Nature | Cool — clears heat, reduces inflammation |
| Taste (Wei) | Bitter and slightly sweet |
| Meridian Entry | Liver, Heart, Small Intestine |
| Functions | Clears heat, astringes dampness, calms the Shen, disperses swelling |
| Clinical Indications | Insomnia, restlessness, wounds, bleeding, painful urination, skin sores |
4. Phytochemical Constituents
Research shows Mimosa pudica contains numerous bioactive compounds that correlate with its traditional uses.
| Compound Group | Examples | Pharmacological Action |
|---|---|---|
| Alkaloids | Mimosine | Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory |
| Flavonoids | Quercetin, myricetin | Antioxidant, wound healing |
| Tannins | Ellagitannins | Astringent, antibacterial |
| Phenolic Compounds | Gallic acid, caffeic acid | Antioxidant, tissue-protective |
| Saponins | — | Immunomodulatory, expectorant |
| Triterpenoids | Lupeol, betulinic acid | Anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective |
5. Nutritional & Elemental Profile (Minor)
While not typically used as a nutritional herb, studies have detected:
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Vitamin C – antioxidant activity
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Trace minerals – iron, calcium
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Plant fiber – aids in gut motility
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Enzymes – such as peroxidases with potential immune effects
6. Documented Pharmacological Activities
| Activity | Evidence & Mechanism |
|---|---|
| Wound Healing | Promotes collagen production; antimicrobial against wound pathogens |
| Anti-Diarrheal | Tannins provide astringent effects on gut lining |
| Antimicrobial | Effective against E. coli, S. aureus, Candida albicans |
| Anti-Inflammatory | Flavonoids and triterpenoids reduce local swelling |
| Anti-Anxiety/Sedative | Mild sedative effects through modulation of neurotransmitters |
| Antioxidant | High scavenging capacity due to phenolics and flavonoids |
| Antiparasitic/Anthelmintic | Used traditionally and proven to expel intestinal worms |
7. Safety & Contraindications
| Risk/Group | Caution |
|---|---|
| Pregnancy | Avoid internal use due to potential uterine stimulation |
| High-dose intake | Mimosine content may inhibit iron absorption or cause nausea |
| Chronic conditions | Consult practitioner if used alongside pharmaceuticals |
Note: Despite strong traditional support, standardized dosage guidelines are not yet globally established.
8. Conclusion
Daun Semalu (Mimosa pudica) is a powerful yet underappreciated medicinal plant with diverse applications in traditional healing — from wound care to emotional calming. Its thigmonastic response reflects its sensitivity, yet its internal chemistry reveals strength and healing. Bridging traditional Malay medicine and modern pharmacognosy, Mimosa pudica deserves deeper investigation and integration into complementary therapies.
References -Data Compile by Chat GPT
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Rai, P. K., et al. (2010). Mimosa pudica L. (sensitive plant): A review of its phytochemistry and pharmacological properties. Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research, 3(1), 44–48.
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Tiwari, P., et al. (2011). Phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activity of Mimosa pudica. International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 3(1), 62–65.
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Zakaria, Z. A., et al. (2007). The anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of Mimosa pudica aqueous extract. Phytotherapy Research, 21(6), 545–549.
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Malaysian Herbal Monograph. (2009). Mimosa pudica. Ministry of Health Malaysia.
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