Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Notebook

Fuchsia excorticata

Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: Traditional use poorly documented in Western literature: caution is advised and the advice of a healthcare professional is recommended before any use. Do not use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to insufficient safety data. Avoid prolonged use or high doses, as no toxicity has been clearly established or ruled out. Reserve harvesting for correctly identified specimens, as wild fuchsia can be confused with treated ornamental species.

Infusion — Leaves

Traditional leaf infusion

Fresh or dried leaves were infused for a few minutes in hot water according to reported Māori uses. It is recommended to seek advice from a professional before any use, as documentation remains limited. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or a recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Decoction — Leaves

Light decoction for external use

A decoction of leaves could be prepared and then applied as a compress on the skin, according to rongoā tradition. Medical advice is recommended before any use, especially on broken skin. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or a recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Fuchsia excorticata grows wild in the humid forests of New Zealand; it is rarely available in European herbalist shops, but may be found cultivated in certain botanical gardens specializing in Oceanian flora.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

Leaves are traditionally harvested in austral spring and summer, when the tree is in full leaf.

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