Laurelia novae-zelandiae
- Origin
- Oceania
- Part used
- Root
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
Laurelia novae-zelandiae, known to the Maori as "pukatea," is a majestic tree of New Zealand's rainforests. Its roots, often spectacular buttresses emerging from swampy ground, were traditionally sought by Indigenous healers for their particular properties.
Traditional uses
Traditional pain relief
Pukatea root bark was traditionally chewed or applied by the Maori to relieve various pains, notably dental pain.
Care for wounds and injuries
Preparations made from root bark were used externally to promote wound healing, according to traditional Maori medicine.
Traditional use for fever
Certain ethnobotanical sources report a use of root decoctions to lower fever in traditional New Zealand practices.
Before you use it
The chemical composition of the root bark, containing active alkaloids, calls for extreme caution and discourages any use without supervision by a qualified professional. The traditional use of this plant is poorly documented in Western literature; no reliable dosage can be provided. Formally discouraged for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and for children. Do not combine with other active substances without medical advice, owing to the risk of uncharacterized interactions.
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
PFAF, Wikipedia