Kawakawa: The Pharmacy of the Forest

Kawakawa benefits encompass a wide range of therapeutic uses, primarily stemming from its potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. Traditionally revered in Rongoā Māori as the “Pharmacy of the Forest,” the leaves of Macropiper excelsum are utilized internally as a tea to alleviate digestive issues and improve circulation, and externally in balms to treat eczema, minor cuts, and insect bites.

Known botanically as Macropiper excelsum, and colloquially as the New Zealand Pepper Tree, Kawakawa is perhaps the most significant plant in the Māori pharmacopeia. Its heart-shaped leaves are a ubiquitous sight in New Zealand’s coastal and lowland forests, easily recognizable by the insect holes that often riddle them. Far from being a sign of disease, these holes are indicators of the plant’s potency.

For centuries, healers and herbalists have relied on this sacred plant to treat everything from stomach cramps to toothaches. Today, modern wellness practices are rediscovering the profound efficacy of this native botanical. Whether you are looking to integrate natural remedies into your daily routine or seeking specific relief for skin conditions, understanding the full spectrum of Kawakawa benefits is essential for any enthusiast of New Zealand herbalism.

Identifying Kawakawa (Macropiper excelsum)

Before harnessing the benefits of Kawakawa, one must be able to identify it correctly within the lush New Zealand bush. Kawakawa is a small tree or shrub, typically growing to a height of six meters. It belongs to the Piperaceae family, making it a close relative of the Kava plant found throughout the Pacific and the black pepper vine.

Visual Characteristics

The plant is distinguished by its vibrant, heart-shaped leaves which grow in an alternating pattern along the stem. The stems themselves are dark and jointed, resembling bamboo in their segmentation. In the summer months, the tree produces candle-like spikes of tiny flowers, which eventually turn into orange berries that are a favorite food source for the Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon).

The Significance of the Looper Moth

A unique aspect of identifying high-quality Kawakawa is looking for damage. The leaves are the primary food source for the caterpillar of the Kawakawa Looper Moth (Cleora scriptaria). When the caterpillars chew holes in the leaves, the plant responds by releasing higher concentrations of secondary metabolites and defensive oils to protect itself.

Consequently, in herbalism, the leaves with the most holes are considered the most medicinal. These “holy” leaves contain higher levels of myristicin and elemicin, the active chemical constituents responsible for the plant’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Internal Uses: Tea for Digestion and Circulation

One of the most common ways to access Kawakawa benefits is through internal consumption, typically in the form of a decoction or tea. The peppery, aromatic flavor profile is warming and stimulating, hinting at its therapeutic actions on the body.

Digestive Health and Dyspepsia

Kawakawa is a carminative, meaning it helps to relieve gas and soothe the digestive tract. It has been traditionally used to treat dyspepsia (indigestion), stomach cramps, and bloating. The bitter properties of the leaves stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and bile, facilitating the breakdown of food and easing discomfort after heavy meals. For those suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or general gastric inflammation, a warm cup of Kawakawa tea can act as a gentle antispasmodic.

Circulatory Support and “Blood Purification”

In historical texts and traditional practice, Kawakawa is often described as a blood purifier or depurative. While modern terminology might differ, the physiological effect is a stimulation of circulation. The diaphoretic properties of the plant can induce sweating, which assists the body in eliminating toxins through the skin. This warming effect makes it an excellent remedy for winter chills, colds, and poor circulation in the extremities.

Respiratory Relief

Chewing the leaves or drinking a strong brew is also effective for respiratory complaints. The plant’s antimicrobial oils can help clear bronchial congestion, soothe sore throats, and alleviate coughs. The numbing effect of the leaf, when chewed, can also provide temporary relief for toothache, functioning similarly to clove oil.

External Uses: Balms for Eczema and Cuts

While internal use is powerful, the external application of Kawakawa is perhaps where it has gained the most commercial recognition in recent years. The plant is a cornerstone ingredient in natural skincare, particularly for conditions involving inflammation and infection.

Treating Eczema, Psoriasis, and Dermatitis

Kawakawa balms are widely regarded as a premier natural treatment for eczema and psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory compounds reduce the redness, swelling, and itchiness associated with these conditions. Furthermore, because Kawakawa is a mild analgesic (pain reliever), it soothes the irritation that causes the “itch-scratch” cycle, allowing the skin to heal.

Wound Healing and Antimicrobial Action

The leaves contain antimicrobial and antifungal properties that make them excellent for treating minor cuts, grazes, and abrasions. Applying a salve infused with Kawakawa creates a protective barrier that prevents infection while accelerating cellular repair. It is also highly effective for:

• Insect Bites: Reduces the histamine reaction and numbs the itch.
• Nappy Rash: Gentle enough for infants, providing a barrier against moisture while treating the rash.
• Bruises and Aches: When massaged into the skin, the warming nature of the plant helps disperse blood stagnation in bruises and soothes joint pain or rheumatism.

Tikanga: The Protocols of Harvesting

When discussing Kawakawa benefits, it is imperative to address the cultural context. In New Zealand, harvesting native plants is not just a physical act but a spiritual interaction. Following Tikanga (protocol) ensures sustainability and respect for the environment.

Principles of Sustainable Harvest

If you intend to harvest Kawakawa yourself, consider the following guidelines:

• Karakia (Prayer/Intention): Begin by setting an intention or offering a prayer of gratitude. This acknowledges the life force (Mauri) of the plant.
• Don’t Take the First: Never harvest the first leaf or branch you see. Leave it to ensure the plant’s survival.
• Sun-Facing Leaves: Harvest from the side of the bush that faces the rising sun (East). Tradition suggests these leaves hold the most energy (Mauri).
• Sustainability: Take only what you need and never strip a branch bare. Harvest a few leaves from different branches to allow the tree to continue photosynthesis effectively.
• Return to Earth: After using the leaves (e.g., after brewing tea), return the plant matter to the earth, ideally at the base of the tree it came from, completing the cycle.

How to Make a Simple Kawakawa Poultice

For immediate relief of nettle stings, deep cuts, or localized infections, a poultice is a traditional and highly effective method of application. This method allows the fresh juices and oils to interact directly with the affected area.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Selection: Select 2-3 large, mature Kawakawa leaves. As mentioned, leaves with insect holes are preferred for their higher potency.
2. Preparation: Wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any dust or debris.
3. Activation: To release the medicinal oils, the cell walls of the leaf must be broken. You can do this by blanching the leaves in hot water for 10 seconds to soften them, or by bruising them. To bruise them, crush the leaves in your hands or use a mortar and pestle until they darken and begin to release moisture.
4. Application: Place the warm, bruised leaves directly over the wound, boil, or rash.
5. Securing: Wrap the area with a clean bandage or cloth to hold the leaves in place.
6. Duration: Leave the poultice on for 20 to 30 minutes. Repeat as necessary throughout the day.

Selecting the Best Kawakawa Products in NZ

If you do not have access to fresh bushes, or prefer the convenience of formulated products, the New Zealand market offers a plethora of high-quality options. When selecting a product, look for transparency regarding ingredients and harvesting methods.

Top Product Categories

• Kawakawa Balm: The most versatile item for a first-aid kit. Look for balms that use a natural base like beeswax, almond oil, or coconut oil. Ensure Kawakawa is listed as a primary ingredient, not an afterthought.
• Kawakawa Tea/Tonic: Available in dried loose-leaf form or tea bags. Some blends mix Kawakawa with Ginger or Manuka leaf for added immune support. High-quality teas will smell distinctly peppery and aromatic.
• Lip Care: Due to its numbing and healing properties, Kawakawa is excellent for chapped lips or cold sores.
• Infused Oils: These are liquid oils infused with the leaves, perfect for massage or for use as a bath oil to treat large areas of dry skin.

By integrating Macropiper excelsum into your wellness regimen, you are connecting with a rich history of New Zealand natural health. Whether applied to the skin or ingested as a warming tea, the benefits of Kawakawa are a testament to the healing power of the forest.