In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the Silk Tree (aka. Mimosa Tree; Albizia julibrissin) is known popularly as the “happiness herb” or “collective happiness bark” and is used for lifting anxiety and depression, as well as for people who are experiencing severe grief, heartbreak and loss. Both the bark and the flowers are the main medicinal products, where the bark is thought to be an ‘anchor’ to the spirt, while the flowers have a lifting quality to them.
A native to Asia, this tree is now planted throughout the world for its ornamental value, with an umbrella-like crown and fluffy pink powder puff flowers that attract bees. The flower heads and young leaves are also edible after cooking and are consumed as a vegetable, and the dried leaves are used sometimes as a tea substitute.
The Silk Tree is believed to work by enhancing neurotransmitter production and regulation. Active constituents are thought to be the saponins, tannins, and the flavonol glycosides have been found to exhibit sedative activity. Antioxidant, calming and anticancer activity have also been noted from investigation of Silk Tree extracts. Other traditional uses include as a digestive, sore throats, insomnia, trauma, skin infections and ulcers, fractures, and sprains.
#Ethnobotany #Ethnopharm #TCM #depression #grief #Acacia #medicinalplants #gardening
*This post is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, cure or treat any disease. Always seek medical advice directly through consultation with a health professional.
Photo by Syrio