Mimosa pudica : Nidikumba : නිදිකුම්බා

  

Mimosa pudica is a creeping annual or perennial flowering plant of the pea/legume family Fabaceae. It is often grown for its curiosity value: the compound leaves fold inward and droop when touched or shaken, defending themselves from harm, and re-open a few minutes later.Nidikumba (Mimosa pudica linn) is a plant that has many medicinal and therapeutic properties but has been mistaken for a weed. It could be found in almost every district in Sri Lanka.

Medicinal Uses:

It is highly recommended for treating gall stones and the plant also acts as a coolant, thereby enabling the smooth passage of urine. Nidikumba-infused water is a common treatment method for various skin conditions including rashes. Those having insomnia are given water infused with Nidikumba leaves and flowers. Properties of mimosin are said to be quite effective in treating this condition. It is also used to treat various psychological conditions. The plant is said to give a sedative feeling once consumed and is said to be restoring certain toxic chemical reactions that occur within your system.