Mimosa Hostilis Root Bark (MHRB)
Mimosa hostilis root bark comes from a tree known in Brazil as Jurema Preta, Black Jurema, or Vinho de Jurema. This remarkable plant grows in the semi-arid Caatinga region of northeastern Brazil and can also be found in parts of Mexico, where it is called Tepezcohuite. The inner root bark is the most valued part of the plant due to its rich composition of natural compounds.
Mimosa originates from Brazil where it has also been used for centuries for various medicinal purposes. The inner part of the root contains the most of the active alkaloids, this is also the part of the Mimosa plant that we offer here at Avalon Magic Plants. In the western world, Mimosa is often used in as a substitute for other plants such as Psychotria Viridis or Chaliponga.
Origin and Botanical Characteristics
Mimosa tenuiflora (the scientific name, synonymous with Mimosa hostilis) belongs to the Fabaceae family and can grow into a tree up to 8 meters tall. The plant is remarkably drought-resistant and plays an important ecological role in its natural habitat. It fixes nitrogen in the soil, prevents erosion, and provides food for local wildlife during dry periods.
The tree has fern-like branches with finely pinnate leaves up to 5 cm long. Each compound leaf contains 15-33 pairs of bright green leaflets. The flowers are small, white to pale pink, and fragrant. The bark varies from reddish-brown to gray, depending on the maturity of the plant.
Natural Composition
The inner root bark of Mimosa hostilis contains a rich mixture of natural compounds:
Tannins (10-16%): These plant compounds give the bark its characteristic reddish-brown to purple color. Tannins are responsible for the excellent dyeing properties of the bark.
Flavonoids: Natural plant pigments that contribute to color intensity in dyeing processes.
Saponins: Natural compounds with foaming properties.
Other compounds: Lipids, phytosterols, glucosides, xylose, rhamnose, arabinose, lupeol, methoxychalcones, and kukulkanins.
Applications
Natural Dye The root bark is an excellent source for natural colorants. Due to its high tannin content, it produces deep, long-lasting shades ranging from soft pink to deep purple and reddish-brown. The final color depends on the mordant used (alum, iron, or copper) and the type of material.
Suitable materials for dyeing:
- Cotton and linen
- Wool and silk
- Hemp and other natural fibers
- Leather and hides
- Paper and wood projects
Leather Tanning The high tannin content (up to 16%) makes the bark highly suitable for vegetable leather tanning. This traditional technique has been applied for centuries and produces durable, eco-friendly tanned leather.
Botanical Specimen The unique botanical properties make Mimosa hostilis interesting as an ethnobotanical study object and for collectors of special plant specimens.
Dyeing Process - Basic Instructions
- Soak the bark in water (ratio approximately 1:10)
- Simmer gently for 1-2 hours to release the dye
- Strain the liquid to remove solid particles
- Submerge pre-treated material in the dye bath
- Simmer gently for 45-60 minutes
- Allow to cool, rinse thoroughly, and dry
Tip: Different mordants produce different colors. Alum gives warmer tones, iron darker tones, and copper greenish undertones.
Our Quality
The Jurema Preta we offer is imported directly from Brazil. We receive fresh shipments monthly, ensuring you receive high-quality product. We offer exclusively the inner root bark, the part with the highest concentration of tannins and pigments.
Product Specifications:
- Family: Leguminosae (Fabaceae)
- Genus: Mimosa
- Species: tenuiflora (syn. hostilis)
- Origin: Brazil
- Form: Whole bark (not shredded)
- Quality: Premium inner root bark
Storage
Store the root bark in a cool, dry, and dark place. Whole bark keeps well for years. Store away from direct sunlight to preserve color quality.
This product is not sold for human consumption. It is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest.
