Mimosa

Scientific Name(s): Albizia julibrissin Duraz z.
Common Name(s): Mimosa, Powder-puff tree, Silk tree

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 28, 2021.

Clinical Overview

Use

In vitro studies document anticancer activity of the various julibrosides against numerous cancer cell lines. The herb is often marketed for relieving anxiety, depression, and stress.

Dosing

The herb is available from commercial manufacturers, and the most common dosage forms are liquids and capsules. Manufacturers suggest 3 to 6 mL of 1:2 mimosa liquid extract daily or 1 capsule 3 times daily with meals. However, capsule formulations are proprietary herbal blends and are available in several strengths. Powders, teas, and tinctures are also available.

Contraindications

Avoid use with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to any mimosa constituents.

Pregnancy/Lactation

Information regarding safety and efficacy in pregnancy and lactation is lacking.

Interactions

None well documented.

Adverse Reactions

Research reveals limited information regarding adverse reactions with the use of mimosa.

Toxicology

Clinical studies are limited.

Scientific Family

• Fabaceae

Botany

Mimosa is native to Iran, China, and Japan, and is also found in northern, southern, and western United States.1, 2, 3, 4 There are approximately 150 species in the genus Albizia, and 17 species are found in southern China.2, 3 Mimosa is a small umbrella-shaped tree growing less than 15 m in height with a broad crown of level or arching branches.2, 5, 6 The bark is dark green to grey in color and may have vertical stripes. The bipinnately compound leaves are 20 to 45 cm long and divided into 4 to 12 pairs of pinnae, each with 10 to 30 pairs of leaflets.2, 7 Mimosa begins to flower in May to early June and through July.4 Ivory, pink, or reddish sweetly scented flowers occur in inflorescences and are a rich nectar source for honeybees, bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.2, 6 Three to 9 fruits often mature within the inflorescences, and oval-shaped seeds can be seen from June to February.2, 6 Mimosa are used in gardens for ornamental purposes, in sandy areas to prevent erosion, and along roadways.2, 4, 5, 6

History

The stem bark has been used as a sedative for hundreds of years as recorded in the Pharmacopeia of the People's Republic of China2, 8, 9 and as an anti-inflammatory agent for swelling and pain in the lungs and to treat skin ulcers, wounds, bruises, abscesses, boils, hemorrhoids, and fractures, as well as to remove carbuncles. The dried stem bark is used as a tonic in China and Japan.10 Indigenous people living in the southern mountainous region of Korea prepare the root as an infusion for bone diseases.11 In India, a chloroform and methanol seed extract has been used to treat bronchitis, asthma, leprosy, and glands infected by tuberculous.12 A bar...