Mimulus guttatus

Yellow Monkeyflower

The genus Mimulus comprises about 150 species which are currently placed in the Phrymaceae family. This genus has been traditionally placed in the Scrophulariaceae family. The name of the genus is derived from the Greek word mimo, or ape, and was suggested by the masked or grinning corolla common to most of the species of Mimulus. Guttatus means spotted in latin.

Medicinal qualities.

- As a flower essence. "The radiant yellow color of the flower (enlivened by bright red spots), and its strong affinity to flowing water, suggests an outgoing quality, and a release of congested emotions. Indeed, Mimulus is indicated for the specific worries and fears that can vex us in everyday life, from the child’s fear of the dark, to adolescent shyness, to the timidity of an elderly shut-in." (Flower Essence Society).

- According to Daniel E. Moerman (Native American Medicinal Plants. Timber Press).

Kawaiisu. Analgesic and Herbal Steam and Orthopedic Aid. Decoction of stems and leaves used as steam bath for chest and back soreness.

Shoshoni. Dermatological Aid. Poultice of crushed leaves applied to wounds or rope burns.

Yavapai. Gastrointestinal Aid. Decoction taken as tea for stomachache.

Edible uses.

The leaves and stems of Yellow Monkeyflower are edible, raw or cooked. The leaves grow bitter with age but are still edible.

Archaeological informations.

Carlos Ramirez (Annals of the Missouri Botanical Garden. 1989) has studied the flora of Rucamanque in Chile, a site dated 13 000 years old. 68 plant species were recovered from the site, of which species of Mimulus. Of these 68 species, today 32 still have medicinal uses.