Admin What is makahiya (makahiya)?
Its scientific name is Mimosa pudica but others call it the sensitive plant or the” touch me not”. The Makahiya plant is a perennial herb. It has compound leaves that sticks together and closes in whenever it is touched or when it is shaken. Afterwards it takes a few minutes for it to unfold its leaves.
Does the makahiya have the capacity to learn?
According to the biologists, the makahiya’s well-documented leaf-folding behavior – a defensive response to physical stimuli – demonstrates “clear habituation,” and suggests that the plant may have the capacity to learn.
Why do makahiya leaves close when you touch them?
Whenever Makahiya is touched the stems get stimulated and releases chemicals resulting in the closing movement of its leaves. Other explanations say that it is also a way of the plant to defend itself from insects that are harmful.
What is the pharmaceutical potential of makahiya plant?
Makahiya (Mimosa pudica Linn) plant has pharmaceutical potentials due to the presence of phytochemicals like alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and triterpenes, its great microbial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis and the antioxidant property it exhibited.