Aristotelia serrata
- Origin
- Oceania
- Part used
- Leaves
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
Makomako, or Aristotelia serrata, is a pioneer shrub of New Zealand's forests and edges, valued by the Maori for its dark fruit and useful foliage. In traditional Maori pharmacopoeia, its leaves held a quiet but recognized place in skin care. This knowledge, passed down orally from generation to generation, today holds above all a historical value.
Traditional uses
Soothing skin irritations
Makomako leaves were traditionally applied as a poultice on wounds, minor burns, or skin irritations, according to reported Maori uses.
Care for minor skin ailments
A leaf decoction was used to wash damaged areas of skin, for local cleansing and soothing.
Traditional use as an herbal tea
The leaves were sometimes infused and drunk, a use reported and documented more modestly than the one intended for the skin.
Before you use it
This traditional use is poorly documented in Western scientific literature: caution remains warranted. Avoid application to deeply broken or very damaged skin without the advice of a health professional. Not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding, for lack of sufficient data. Do not use internally for a prolonged period without consulting a qualified herbalist or doctor.
The detailed notebook
- Prepared as a paste or decoction
- Traditional duration of use
- Known contraindications
- Related species and their uses
Where to find it
Partner herbalists — available with the detailed notebook.
Sources
Wikipedia