Humble plant or Sensitive plant (Thottarchinungi in Tamil) is a plant that is known for its quality to close its leaves when you happen to touch it. Commonly known as Touch me not, Mimosa pudica has been used in many herbal medicines for its beneficial properties.
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, in this herbal remedy, we use Touch me not leaves to cure inflammation in the joints – primarily due to arthritis.
This plant was small leaves that are dark green in colour and kind of hairy. The stems have thorns in them and the flowers are a pink colour with bristle like petals.
Ingredients
- 1 Handful Humble plant leaves Thottarchinungi or Touch me Not
- Water (as required)
Instructions
- To make the paste use Humble plant (Thottal surungi) leaves and water.
- Take one handful fresh humble plant leaves. Wash the leaves well.
- Place the leaves on a grinding stone.
- Add very little water.
- Grind well and make paste.
- Take out the thick paste.
- Apply the paste on the inflamed area. Allow to dry and wash off.
Notes
Directions for use:
- Apply the paste on the inflamed area.
- Leave it on for about an hour and wash off.
Benefits of Touch me Not leaves:
Applying the paste of the leaves on the anus can be a good cure for bleeding piles and pain while passing stools.
The leaves of Touch me Not can be made into a raw juice. You can consume 20 ml of this juice once daily to treat Asthma and its symptoms. This remedy is only suited for adults as some kids may be allergic.
A poultice or the application of the paste on the area of a snake or insect bite can have an immediate impact and can work as an anti-venom medicine.
Similarly, for minor wounds, cuts and bruises, you can apply the juice of the leaves. It will help to alleviate the pain and help to heal faster.
The leaves are known to have anti-diabetes and anti-cholesterol properties. But personally, I have not made sufficient research in this area and would hence advice you to check with a Siddha or Ayurvedic practitioner before using this to treat these conditions.
In general, pregnant women and kids are advised against the use of sensitive plant – be it the leaves or roots since there aren’t enough studies to certify if it is safe.
