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What is Mimosa Tree Bark?

Mary McMahon
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 15,379
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Mimosa tree bark is bark which has been harvested from the mimosa tree, also known as a Persian silk tree. This bark is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as well as in herbal medicinal traditions in other countries, and as a flavoring in some commercially produced foods. Mimosa tree bark is available at many Chinese markets and in stores which sell Chinese herbs, and it can also be found at some health food stores. Before using any herbal remedy, it is a good idea to consult your doctor, to make sure that its use is appropriate for you.

The Persian silk tree or Albizia julibrissin is a deciduous tree which is native to Southeast Asia. In addition to being used as a source of medicinally valuable compounds, mimosa trees are also planted as ornamentals, since they have a branching growth habit and attractive feathery foliage and flowers. The flowers are also used in various herbal preparations and tinctures. Mimosa tree bark is often sold dried in shredded form, and it can also be found in capsules and tinctures.

In TCM, mimosa tree bark is sometimes called Collective Happiness Bark, because it is used as a general antidepressant. It affects the heart and liver meridians, and since the heart houses the shen, or spirit, mimosa tree bark can be used to calm the spirit and reduce the symptoms associated with depression and general spiritual unrest. Mimosa tree bark is also used to treat inflammation, particularly external pain and swelling.

The practice of TCM is very complex, and careful evaluation is required before an herb will be prescribed. It is important to see a TCM practitioner before taking Chinese herbs, to ensure that you are taking the right herbs in the right amounts. A TCM practitioner may also recommend supplemental therapy such as massage, acupuncture, or tai chi. You find that mimosa tree bark is more effective when used under the guidance of an herbal practitioner.

Herbal remedies can also interfere with the efficacy of other medications. For this reason, you should disclose the use of Chinese herbs to Western doctors, and you should also alert TCM practitioners to any Western medications which you are taking. Failure to do so may result in an adverse drug interaction, which could have serious consequences if not caught and addressed early.

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Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGeek researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

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Discussion Comments
By anon286656 — On Aug 21, 2012

Mimosa trees once planted in your yard will take over and seed everywhere, so beware of that.

By anon48873 — On Oct 15, 2009

I am growing a mimosa pudica plant. It is called the Tickle Me Plant because it really moves when you tickle it! The leaves instantly close and even the branches droop when tickled. You can see the video and grow your own indoors year round.

By anon40587 — On Aug 09, 2009

is this the same mimosa that people smoke to get relaxed?

By realeone2 — On Nov 08, 2008

Hello, I have a Mimosa tree now planted in my yard. I would like to know IF it is the kind you have mentioned here on your site? I live in SE Georgia. It sounds like a really neat tree, as I knew it was, just never explored the medicinal uses before.If it is the same tree, would I use the bark or leaves?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

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