Mimosa bark is typically administered through homemade teas and tinctures. [3] X Research source It’s also available as a commercial dietary supplement. [4] X Research source The first written documentation of mimosa’s medicinal properties appeared in 200 AD in a compilation of Chinese oral medicinal traditions called The Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica (or Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing).
Only source what you need from the tree; removing too much at one time can damage it. Feel free to harvest the bark year-round, but winter and spring are ideal so the tree has a chance to resprout. If small shoots or limbs have recently to the ground, you can use those, too. [6] X Research source
The bark is fully dry when it feels crisp and snaps into pieces when you bend it (it should have no flexibility whatsoever). Drying usually takes a couple of days. To speed up process a bit, scatter the bark pieces in direct sunlight. [9] X Research source Put the dried bark in an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. Dried bark will keep indefinitely.
Dosage: this recipe makes 2 doses. Stick with 1 dose per day (so divide the recipe in half if you’re only dosing yourself). Mimosa bark tea is pretty sour by itself, but the honey definitely helps. To alter the flavor even more, steep the bark with a pinch of licorice or schizandra berries (just be sure to strain them out along with the bark). [11] X Research source
Dosage: take 3-20 drops of the tincture per dose. Go with 1-3 doses per day. [13] X Research source Mimosa bark is well-tolerated and traditional Chinese literature doesn’t mention any warnings. That said, some western herbalists believe the tincture may cause people with mood disorders to go into a manic state. If you have bipolar disorder (or any other type of mood disorder), talk to your doctor first.
Medicinally, mimosa flowers are used in teas and tinctures. They can help elevate your mood, act as a mild sedative, and soothe an upset stomach. [15] X Research source
Mimosa trees bloom abundantly, so feel free to go back and harvest more flowers from the same tree every few days.
To brew mimosa flower tea: Pour 12 oz (354 ml) of boiled water over 1 tbsp (15 g) of dried flowers in a sturdy mug. Cover the mug and steep the tea for 5-10 minutes. Strain out the solids and enjoy the tea warm with a little honey. [19] X Research source
Try to shake up the jar every few days as the blooms are steeping. Strain the solids out with a cheesecloth or metal strainer, then store the liquid in a glass dropper bottle. Dosage: 40-80 drops, up to 3 times per day. [21] X Research source
