Wairaakau Flora Kawakawa

Kawakawa: Macropiper excelsum Pepper tree

Most commonly used rongoa, easily obtained

Skin: Nappy rash, eczema, psoriasis and scabies acts as an anti-inflammatory – bruise leaves and apply to skin

nDigestive system: Indigestion and stomach ulcers, a soothing agent that protects the mucous membranes and relieves irritation – boil water, add crushed leaves stand for 10 minutes then drink as tea
 Bones and Muscle: muscle and joint pain and swelling acts as an anti-inflammatory – boil crushed leaves in water, use as a poultice
Bowel: Irritable Bowel Syndrome and ulcerated conditions acts as a soothing agent that protects the mucous membranes and relieve irritation – boil crushed leaves stand for 10 minutes use as a tea
nBlood: Purifies, rich in iron and blood disorders – prepare as above
nLungs: inhaled for Asthma, tuberculosis (TB), coughs, colds, bronchitis – prepare as a tea
nKidneys and Liver: Flushes and detoxifies - prepare as a tea
 nFatigue or feeling run down: A natural energiser – have as a tea or cold drink
 First Aid: Bark used for dressing of wounds, swelling, lumps, abscesses and tumours