Scientifically known as Mimosa Pudica, the makahiya plant literally means shy and bashful. It is also referred to as the shrinking plant or the “touch-me-not” since it shrinks or folds when touched. While small, the makahiya plant uses are wide and varied, offering numerous health benefits.

The plant is believed to provide relief for asthma and is also considered antibacterial, analgesic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, and diuretic, among many others.

Uses

Makahiya Plant Uses

The plant has continually been used to treat various health issues, such as the following:

High Blood Pressure

Consuming the juice of makahiya leaves may alleviate the symptoms of high blood pressure.

Insomnia

With the makahiya plant’s anti-stress properties, you can be lulled to a relaxing deep sleep after taking a solution made of this herbal 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.

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

Extreme bleeding during menstruation is caused by certain hormonal changes in the body. 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 its apparent positive effects on one’s health and wellness, it is to be noted that herbal counterparts may have lower testing standards and research compared to prescription medication.

Most incidences of side effects and drug interactions are not likely to be fully reported, as well. Hence, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor before taking it.

For the most part, the makahiya plant is safe for use, especially for adults. Just like most herbal medicines, moderate use is recommended.

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.

It is highly recommended that you consult your doctor first.

Dosage

For the dosage, the most common form is liquid. Commercial manufacturers have also come up with capsules.

Makahiya leaf liquid extracts are usually taken 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. The makahiya leaves may be juiced and taken orally or applied 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. As with any other herbal plant, research is limited, and the adverse effects are not profoundly stated. Hence, you should use it with caution. We recommend doctor consultation before using.

Learn more about Herbals & Alternatives here.