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Makahiya Plant Uses: How Does It Benefit One's Health?

Medically reviewed by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD · Pharmacology


Written by Kristel Lagorza · Updated May 29, 2023

Makahiya Plant Uses: How Does It Benefit One's Health?

What are makahiya plant uses? Scientifically known as Mimosa Pudica, the makahiya plant literally means shy and bashful. Its other names are the shrinking plant or the “touch-me-not” since it shrinks or folds when touched. Makahiya plant uses are varied, offering numerous health benefits. 

In traditional medicine, practitioners believe the plant provides relief for asthma. It may also have antibacterial, analgesic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, and diuretic properties.

Makahiya Plant Uses

What are makahiya plant uses? The plant may be useful in treating various health issues, such as the following: 

High Blood Pressure

Consuming the juice of makahiya leaves may alleviate the symptoms of high blood pressure. Do not self-medicate and do not consume without consulting your doctor first. 

Insomnia

With the makahiya plant’s anti-stress properties, you may experience a relaxing deep sleep after taking a solution made of this plant’s leaves.

Diabetes

It is believed that the makahiya plant can help regulate the blood sugar levels through the release of just the proper amount of insulin. Do not self-medicate and do not consume without consulting your doctor first. 

Diarrhea

Juicing the leaves of this plant and consuming it will help replenish the lost water in your body. 

Asthma

Drinking makahiya juice cleans and clears the airway of your lungs from dust and other allergens to alleviate the effects of asthma.

Joint Pains

The makahiya herbal plant has anti-inflammatory properties to provide inflammation relief from arthritis and other body pains. Make a paste out of the leaves and apply it on the affected area overnight. With regular application, noticeable pain and swelling will gradually diminish.

Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

Certain hormonal changes in the body may cause extreme bleeding during menstruation. Maintain balance and prevent excessive bleeding by taking makahiya juice made of its leaves.

Hemorrhoids

One of the key makahiya plant uses is hemorrhoid treatment. With its antioxidant property, the makahiya plant helps in the fast healing of wounds, including hemorrhoids.

Stomachache

The makahiya boasts anti-bacterial characteristics that effectively get rid of intestinal worms and bacteria that cause various intestinal problems.

Precautions & Warnings

Despite apparent positive effects on one’s health and wellness, take note that herbal counterparts may have lower testing standards compared to prescription medication.

Most incidences of side effects and drug interactions are not likely to be fully reported, as well. For this reason, consult your doctor before taking any health supplements.

For the most part, the makahiya plant is safe for use, especially for adults. 

Allergy

The makahiya may not be beneficial if you have allergic reactions to any of its components. If at some point you may experience inflammation and skin irritation, stop using and consult your doctor immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is not enough research to confirm the effects of the makahiya plant when used by pregnant women or nursing mothers. To be on the safe side, we recommend not using it unless you have your doctor’s go-signal.

Some contraindications for makahiya herbal plant

  • If you have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to any of the components of the makahiya herbal plant, avoid use. Discuss with your doctor first if you’re planning to include herbal medication to your health regimen.
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid using the makahiya herbal plant. We recommend visiting your physician first.

Side Effects & Interactions

There is generally not enough research on possible adverse side effects on the use of the makahiya plant. However, if you experience any skin irritation or inflammation, discontinue use and consult your doctor immediately.

In addition, information regarding safety in pregnancy and lactation is also lacking. For safety purposes, pregnant and lactating mothers are highly discouraged from taking this herbal plant.

What interactions may I have with makahiya?

The use of makahiya herbal plant should be monitored in certain health-related cases. Research reveals limited documentation to the drug interactions of this herbal plant when used with prescription medication. Always consult your doctor first.

Dosage

For the dosage, the most common form is liquid. Commercial manufacturers have also come up with capsules of makahiya leaf liquid extracts of up to 15 ml, depending on what health condition you wish to treat. Capsule formulations are basically stronger and more potent. We highly recommend checking with your physician first.

What form does makahiya herbal plant come in?

The makahiya herbal plant may be used in its natural form. You may juice the makahiya leaves and take them orally. You may also apply them directly to any affected area, especially for arthritis and joint pains. Manufacturers have also developed the makahiya herbal plant and have made it available in powder, tea, and capsule forms.

The makahiya is undeniably well-supported when it comes to herbal medication. But as with other herbal remedies, research remains limited. What’s more, the adverse effects are not profoundly stated. Hence, you should use it with caution. We recommend consulting with your doctor before using any herbal supplement.

Learn more about Herbals & Alternatives here

Disclaimer

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Medically reviewed by

Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD

Pharmacology


Written by Kristel Lagorza · Updated May 29, 2023

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